Topeka Home Plumbing Calendar

January

Deep cold

0 of 3 done

Know where the main shut-off is. See burst pipe steps.
Why it matters
Seconds count when a pipe splits.
When to get a pro: Get a seized valve replaced.
Let a tap on an outside wall drip on the coldest nights.
Why it matters
Moving water freezes more slowly.
Keep crawl space vents closed.
Why it matters
Cold drafts freeze pipes underneath.

February

Late freezes

0 of 3 done

Check basement and crawl space pipes after each cold spell.
Why it matters
Splits show up as pipes thaw.
Look for rust or drips around the water heater.
Why it matters
Early signs of a failing tank.
When to get a pro: A plumber can check the anode and valve.
Test toilets with food coloring.
Why it matters
Finds silent flapper leaks.

March

Before the storms

0 of 3 done

Test the sump pump. See sump pump check.
Why it matters
Spring storms test it for real.
When to get a pro: Replace a pump that struggles.
Check the sump discharge line outside.
Why it matters
It must carry water away from the house.
Clear leaves from yard and window well drains.

April

Storm season

0 of 3 done

Test the battery backup pump if you have one.
Why it matters
Storms cut power.
Turn outdoor taps back on and check for leaks.
Why it matters
Freeze damage hides until spring.
Look at the floor drain after heavy rain.
Why it matters
Water there is an early warning.

May

Spring rain

0 of 3 done

Check gutters and downspouts send water away from the foundation.
Why it matters
Less water reaches the sump pit.
Clean faucet aerators and shower heads.
Why it matters
Restores flow.
Look under sinks for drips.

June

Summer starts

0 of 3 done

Check hoses and irrigation for leaks.
Why it matters
Summer watering adds up fast.
Keep the sump pump clear of debris.
Read the water meter with everything off.
Why it matters
Finds hidden leaks.

July

Peak heat

0 of 3 done

Look at the washing machine hoses.
Why it matters
Burst hoses cause big floods.
When to get a pro: Fit braided steel hoses.
Check the water heater's relief valve pipe for drips.
Keep drains clear of grease from summer cooking.

August

Late summer

0 of 3 done

Flush a few gallons from the water heater drain.
Why it matters
Removes sediment.
When to get a pro: A plumber can do a full flush.
Check under the kitchen sink and dishwasher.
Test the main shut-off still turns.

September

Back to school

0 of 3 done

Fix dripping taps before winter.
Check the sewer cleanout cap is easy to find.
Why it matters
Saves time in a backup.
Plan any remodel plumbing before the holidays.

October

Fall prep

0 of 3 done

Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor taps.
Why it matters
Prevents split sillcocks.
Insulate pipes in the garage and crawl space.
Test the sump pump once more.
Why it matters
Fall storms can be heavy.

November

Before the freeze

0 of 3 done

Close crawl space vents.
Check the water heater area is clear and dry.
Keep holiday grease out of the kitchen drain.
Why it matters
Cool it and bin it.

December

Freeze watch

0 of 3 done

On hard-freeze nights, open sink cabinets on outside walls.
Keep the heat on if you travel.
Why it matters
Set it no lower than the mid-50s.
Never thaw pipes with an open flame.
Why it matters
Use a hair dryer.
When to get a pro: Get a plumber if a pipe bursts.

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

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Topeka Home Plumbing Calendar

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

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