Spring in Illinois brings heavy rains and shifting soil, which can wreak havoc on aging pipes and overworked pumps. At Aqua Knight Plumbing, we’ve put together a quick checklist to help you avoid a “Spring Surprise” in your basement.
1. The Sump Pump “Stress Test”
April showers bring more than just flowers—they bring rising water tables. Your sump pump is the only thing standing between a dry basement and a costly flood.
-
The Check: Pour a five-gallon bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should turn on quickly, discharge the water, and shut off.
-
The Aqua Knight Tip: If your pump is over 6 years old or making a “clanging” sound, it’s time for a professional inspection. Don’t forget to check your battery backup—power outages are common during spring thunderstorms!
2. Inspect Your Outdoor Spigots
If you didn’t fully drain your outdoor faucets last winter, there’s a chance a small amount of trapped water froze and cracked the internal pipe. You won’t notice the leak until the first time you turn on the hose.
-
The Check: Turn on the outdoor faucet and place your thumb over the opening. If you can easily stop the flow of water, there’s likely a leak inside the wall.
-
The Danger: An internal wall leak can lead to mold and structural rot before you even see a puddle on the floor.
3. Clear Those Gutters and Downspouts
You might think this is a roofing job, but it’s actually a plumbing lifesaver. When gutters are clogged, water pools at the foundation of your home.
-
The Result: This puts massive pressure on your foundation walls and forces your sump pump to run constantly, leading to premature pump failure. Ensure downspouts are carrying water at least 6 to 10 feet away from your home’s perimeter.
4. Check for “Silent” Toilet Leaks
Shifting temperatures can cause rubber flappers in your toilet tanks to brittle and crack.
-
The Test: Drop a few drops of food coloring into the back tank. Don’t flush. If color appears in the bowl after 15 minutes, you have a leak.
-
The Savings: A silent toilet leak can waste up to 200 gallons of water a day, spiking your spring water bill.
Let Aqua Knight Handle the Dirty Work
Spring is for enjoying the warmer weather, not wading through a flooded basement. Whether you need a sump pump upgrade or a full system “Spring Tune-Up,” Aqua Knight Plumbing is here to ensure your home transitions into the new season smoothly.
Schedule your Spring Plumbing Inspection today!
