Are you energized and ready to tackle your spring cleaning and seasonal maintenance? Have you made a list to make the process more efficient?
When you make your list, you should include your outdoor plumbing. Getting your outdoor plumbing ready to go for the watering season is to your benefit.
Not only will your system be more efficient and reliable, but you’ll also be able to enjoy your lawn and garden stress-free for the whole spring and summer here in El Monte, CA. Here is how to get your outdoor plumbing spring-ready.
Check Your Faucets
Use the same approach with your outdoor faucets as you do your indoor faucets. Don’t ignore a dripping tap. Get it fixed right away.
If you aren’t sure if there is a leak, turn the faucet on and off and see if any water appears. Place your thumb over the spigot with the water running.
If the water can’t move past your thumb, you probably have a leak. The low water pressure indicates that.
Sprinkler Assessment
Did your sprinkler get leaky over the winter? Walk on your lawn. Are there sunken patches? Are there dead patches? Any pooling or bubbling water? These could all be signs of leaks.
To make sure that your sprinkler will work well this season, check the nozzle heads. Don’t let them protrude too far out of the ground or they will get cut by the lawnmower.
Replace any broken nozzle heads. Clean them out of rocks, soil, grass or anything else that will get in the way of the water spray. Set the timers to go in the early morning or overnight when less water will evaporate.
How’s Your Hose?
Garden hoses are made of rubber, which means that they don’t last forever. It doesn’t take a giant hole in your hose to be a major spot of water waste either.
Tiny splits in the hose will trickle water out in areas that you probably don’t need to be watered, creating waste. Patch your hoses up, or replace them altogether if need be.
You can extend your hose’s life by storing it carefully. Hang it on the wall in wide loops when you aren’t using it.
Gutter Cleanout
When leaves and other matter clog your gutters, water won’t go to the downspouts, which means you could be dealing with leaks in your roof, or even in your foundation if the water doesn’t drain away properly.
This is an easy fix. Simply remove the leaves with a broom throughout the season. After you’ve finished this list, pat yourself on the back and get ready to enjoy spring.