Introduction
Spring is a season of renewal, but it’s also when many hidden plumbing issues come to the surface. As temperatures rise and snowmelt saturates the ground, your home’s plumbing system can be put to the test.
From basement leaks to clogged drains and pipe damage, spring brings a unique set of plumbing challenges that can lead to costly repairs if not addressed early.
In this blog, we’ll break down the most common plumbing problems homeowners in Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley face in spring—and how you can avoid them with a little maintenance and planning.
1. Cracked or Leaking Pipes
During winter, water in your pipes can freeze and expand, placing stress on plumbing lines. Even if the pipes didn’t burst, the freezing temperatures may have weakened them, causing microfractures or hairline cracks that go unnoticed—until spring.
Once thawing occurs, these cracks can leak slowly behind walls or under flooring, leading to water damage and mould.
Prevention Tip: After winter, inspect exposed pipes for visible damage. If you notice low water pressure or signs of moisture in walls or ceilings, contact a professional to check for leaks. Annual inspections are key.
2. Basement Flooding
Snowmelt and spring rains can lead to water pooling around your foundation. If your sump pump is faulty or missing altogether, you could end up with a flooded basement.
This isn’t just inconvenient—it can cause serious structural damage and pose health risks due to mould and mildew.
Prevention Tip: Test your sump pump early in the season. Pour a bucket of water into the pit to see if it activates. If you don’t have a sump pump, consider installing one, especially if you live in a flood-prone area.
3. Clogged Outdoor Drains
Leaves, debris, and ice buildup from winter can clog exterior drains and downspouts. When spring rain hits, water may have nowhere to go—leading to overflow, puddles, and erosion near your foundation.
Prevention Tip: Clear outdoor drains and gutters of any debris and check for clogs. Ensure that downspouts are pointed away from your home to reduce the risk of water intrusion.
4. Backed-Up Sewer Lines
Spring rains can oversaturate the ground, putting pressure on your sewer lines. This, combined with tree root growth (which accelerates in spring), can cause backups—often in your basement or lower-level drains.
Signs to Watch For: Gurgling drains, slow-flowing toilets, or foul smells are all red flags.
Prevention Tip: Have your sewer line inspected annually, especially if your home is older or surrounded by large trees. Hydro-jetting and camera inspections can catch problems early before they lead to a full backup.
5. Outdoor Faucet Damage
Hose bibs and outdoor faucets are easily forgotten during winter, especially if they weren’t properly shut off or drained. Once temperatures warm, you might turn them on and discover they’re leaking—or worse, the connected pipe inside your wall has burst.
Prevention Tip: Before using outdoor faucets in spring, check them carefully. Turn on the water slowly and look for leaks. If you notice water pooling inside, shut it off and call a professional.
6. Water Heater Stress
Spring might not be the coldest time of year, but your water heater is still working hard—especially if it was under strain all winter long. Sediment buildup, corrosion, and age-related wear can cause efficiency to drop or leaks to form.
Signs of Trouble: Inconsistent water temperature, strange noises, or rusty water.
Prevention Tip: Flush your water heater in spring to remove sediment. If it’s over 10 years old or requires frequent repairs, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model.
7. Slow or Clogged Drains
Spring activities often lead to increased water use—whether you’re gardening, hosting guests, or doing seasonal deep cleans. This added pressure on your plumbing can make pre-existing clogs or buildup in your drains more noticeable.
Prevention Tip: Use drain strainers to catch debris, and avoid pouring grease or food waste down the sink. If you’re experiencing multiple slow drains, it could be a sign of a deeper issue in your plumbing system.
8. Shifting Soil and Pipe Movement
As the ground thaws and moisture levels rise, soil around your home can shift. This can cause movement in underground plumbing lines, particularly those that run from your house to the city water main or sewer.
This shifting can lead to pipe cracks, misalignments, or full separation of joints—resulting in leaks or backups.
Prevention Tip: If you notice unusual sogginess in your yard or unexplained wet spots, have your lines inspected. Regular check-ups can help avoid major underground plumbing failures.
Keep Spring Plumbing Problems in Check
Spring is the perfect time to assess and address potential plumbing problems before they escalate. Proactive maintenance can save you from sudden emergencies, water damage, and unexpected repair bills.
At Cohesive Mechanical, we offer thorough plumbing inspections and expert service to help you prevent and solve spring-related issues. Whether it’s a cracked pipe, sump pump installation, or a drain cleaning, our experienced team is ready to keep your home safe and functional.
Don’t let spring surprises ruin your season—contact us today to schedule a plumbing check-up and stay ahead of the issues.