As the weather warms and we move into late spring, basements become more and more prone to water damage. Thawing snow and frequent showers will threaten your home’s foundation, and unexpected leaks will exacerbate the problem. Luckily, Reader Plumbing & Septic is looking out for their customers in Green Bay and the greater Fox Valley, WI, area. Here, they list three insightful residential plumbing tips to protect your property in the coming months.

3 Spring Maintenance Tips for Residential Plumbing Systems

1. Service Your Sump Pump

If rain flows into your basement from an overflowing drainage system or weak foundation, you’ll rely on your sump pump to collect and clear the water. To ensure this component is up to the job, conduct a routine inspection. Simply pour a gallon of water into the pit and turn on the mechanism. If there are any issues, call your local plumbing contractor. Then, check the discharge line and remove leaves and debris that accumulated during the winter.

2. Install a Backup Sump Pump

If your sump pump suddenly breaks down or the flooding is so extreme that one mechanism can’t keep up, you’ll be forced to deal with impending water damage. To prevent this, ask your plumbing contractor to install a backup sump pump. That way, even if your home loses power, a battery- or water-powered pump will get the job done.

3. Check for Toilet Leaks

If your toilet is constantly running, you may be using an excessive amount of water and raising your utility bills. To check for leaky components, drop a teaspoon of food coloring into the rear tank. Wait about 30 minutes, then look into the toilet bowl. If the water has been tinted by the coloring, your tank is leaking.

By using these three simple tips, you can make the most of your spring cleaning and maintenance efforts. Reader Plumbing & Septic has over 40 years of commercial and residential plumbing experience, so call (920) 788-2494 for professional help with these checks. You can also visit their website for a detailed explanation of their plumbing services.