An easy DIY checklist to avoid expensive repairs from coming down the pipe!

When the warmer temperatures of spring arrive, it’s not just grass and flowers that begin to “wake up” outside. Outdoor plumbing is also starting to thaw and that is a perfect time to inspect your system to ensure melting ice doesn’t reveal a new leak, a damaged pipe, or a host of other potential issues.

Here is our Ben Franklin Outdoor Plumbing Safety Checklist:

Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs: This is the best first step on your inspection checklist because they are often the most exposed plumbing items during freezing winter temperatures.

Check for Leaks: Turn on each outdoor faucet to check for leaks or reduced water pressure. If the faucet leaks when turned on, it might have frozen and cracked over the winter, or it could be due to a worn washer or damaged valve. If there is a leak, it may be necessary to replace it.
TIP: If you haven’t already, consider buying an inexpensive foam insulated cover that can better protect your faucet and bib from cold weather. They are sold at most home improvement and hardware stores.

Reconnect Garden Hoses: Once you’re confident your outdoor faucets are working correctly, it’s time to reconnect garden hoses.

Inspect for Cracks or Damage: Before reconnecting the hose to the faucet, thoroughly inspect it for any cracks, leaks, or signs of wear. Freezing temperatures can cause hoses to become brittle and crack.

Turn On the Water Supply Slowly: This is important if you completely turned off your water supply during the winter.

Gradual Turn-On: Open the shut-off valve slowly to avoid creating sudden pressure that could damage old or fragile pipes.
Check for Leaks: As you restore water, open the outdoor faucets gradually to allow any residual water to drain out of the pipes and ensure that no leaks or bursts occur due to previous freezing.

Inspect Irrigation and Sprinkler Systems: If you have a sprinkler or irrigation system, it's essential to check for any issues caused by freezing temperatures.

Check for Cracked Pipes: Inspect the irrigation pipes, sprinkler heads, and hoses for signs of cracks or leaks.
Test System Functionality: Turn on the system to check that it’s functioning properly. Look for any broken sprinkler heads or areas where water isn’t being properly distributed.
- TIP: Over the winter, mud or other debris might cover sprinkler heads, as well, making it difficult for them to pop up under pressure. Clear away any obstructions you find.
Flush the System: Be sure to flush the pipes to clear any residual water or debris that could block water flow.

Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Spring showers can put extra pressure on your home’s drainage system, and clogged gutters or downspouts can lead to water pooling around your foundation.

Check for Debris: Ensure gutters are clear of leaves, dirt, and other debris that can prevent water from flowing freely.
Check Downspouts: Make sure the downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation to avoid water damage or potential flooding.

Examine Pipes in Exposed or Uninsulated Areas: Outdoor pipes that are exposed or located in uninsulated areas (such as crawl spaces, basements, or exterior walls) are at risk of freezing, even during early spring cold spells.

Add Insulation: If the weather is still fluctuating, add insulation to protect your pipes from potential freezing.
Inspect for Signs of Damage: Look for any bulging or cracking in exposed pipes that may have occurred during the winter freeze. Replace any damaged pipes before they burst or leak.
- TIP: Your Ben Franklin Plumbing experts can easily handle any insulation or pipe repairs you may need.

Check for Water Pressure Issues: After restoring the water supply, check your outdoor plumbing for any signs of low water pressure. Low pressure could indicate a blockage, a leak in the system, or damage from frozen pipes.

Test Faucets and Sprinklers: Turn on the outdoor faucets and check whether the water pressure is consistent. Low pressure could signal a problem.
Examine Irrigation and Sprinkler Systems: Low pressure could also affect irrigation systems or sprinklers, causing uneven water distribution in your lawn or garden.

Look for Signs of Leaks: Pay attention to any puddles or damp areas around outdoor faucets, irrigation lines, or other plumbing fixtures.

Monitor the Ground: Check around outdoor faucets for signs of pooling water, which could indicate a broken pipe or a damaged connection.
Inspect Underground Pipes: Leaks in underground irrigation or drainage pipes can go unnoticed unless the damage is severe. If you suspect a leak, consider calling your local Ben Franklin Plumbing professionals for fast response and inspection.

Inspect the Water Meter for Irregularities: Check your water meter for any unusual readings or signs of water usage when nothing is in use. If you see abnormal water consumption, it might indicate a hidden leak in your outdoor plumbing system.

Perform a Water Meter Test: This involves turning off all water-using appliances inside the house, noting the water meter reading, and then checking it again after a few hours. A change in the reading can indicate a leak in the outdoor plumbing.

While this checklist can be DIY, we understand that thoroughly inspecting an outdoor plumbing system can seem daunting. It’s important that it’s done correctly to prevent property damage and exponentially much more expensive repairs.

At Ben Franklin Plumbing, we’re always just a phone call away and can provide these added benefits to calling in a professional.

Expertise in Identifying Hidden Issues: As the checklist conveys, plumbing can be complex and issues may not always be immediately visible. Our expert plumbers are trained to identify subtle signs of damage that might go unnoticed. Their experience helps pinpoint the exact source of the issue and prevent further complications.
Proper Tools and Equipment: Professional plumbers have access to specialized tools and equipment designed to handle outdoor plumbing problems. This includes tools for detecting leaks, performing pipe inspections, and safely repairing frozen or burst pipes. With the right equipment, plumbers can resolve issues quickly and effectively, minimizing the risk of further damage.
Knowledge of Local Regulations: Local municipalities often have regulations regarding plumbing work, especially for outdoor systems like irrigation, drainage, and outdoor faucets. A professional plumber will be familiar with these rules and ensure that any repairs or installations are up to code. This not only ensures that your work is compliant but also prevents future issues with inspections or legal complications.
Emergency Response: Outdoor plumbing issues can sometimes require urgent attention. Professional plumbers are available for emergency services, ensuring that they can resolve your outdoor plumbing issues quickly before they cause further damage to your home or landscaping.
Long-Term Cost Savings: While hiring a professional plumber may seem like an added expense, it can save you money in the long term. DIY fixes may provide temporary solutions but can often lead to more significant issues down the road. Additionally, improperly completed repairs could result in higher water bills or property damage. A professional ensures that repairs are done right, minimizing the risk of future issues and unnecessary costs.
Peace of Mind: At the end of the day, this is one of the most important benefits Ben Franklin Plumbing delivers to our customers. When you hire us, you gain peace of mind knowing that the job will be done efficiently, safely, and correctly.

At Ben Franklin Plumbing, we address your plumbing concerns correctly, safely, and affordably the first time. We’ve been proudly serving customers in Charlotte and the surrounding area for decades, including Indian Trail, Concord, and Mooresville.

Visit https://www.benjaminfranklinplumbing.com/charlotte/ or call our 24/7 customer service line today (704) 802-1379.

When the Spring Thaw Springs a Leak In Your Outdoor Plumbing