As spring arrives in West Sussex, the warmer weather brings opportunities to assess how your home’s plumbing has weathered the winter months. At N J Lees Plumbing & Heating, we’ve helped countless homeowners across Worthing and surrounding areas identify and address signs that they need plumbing maintenance that typically appear after the colder season. This comprehensive spring plumbing checklist will help ensure your home’s water systems remain in optimal condition throughout the year ahead.

Why Spring Plumbing Maintenance Matters

Winter can be particularly harsh on plumbing systems. The freezing temperatures, increased usage, and seasonal challenges can take their toll on pipes, fixtures, and appliances. In my experience serving customers throughout West Sussex, spring maintenance prevents minor issues from developing into major problems during the warmer months.

Just last spring, we visited a home in Worthing where a small, undetected winter leak had begun to cause structural damage. Had the homeowner conducted a basic spring inspection, this issue could have been identified and addressed before significant damage occurred.

Outdoor Plumbing Inspection

Check External Taps

The freeze-thaw cycle can be particularly damaging to outdoor taps:

1. Turn on each outdoor tap to check for proper flow
2. Look for leaks around the handle and spout
3. Check the surrounding wall for signs of water damage or staining
4. Listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate internal damage

For our customers in coastal areas like Littlehampton and Shoreham-by-Sea, we also recommend checking for corrosion damage that can be accelerated by salt in the air.

Inspect Drainage Points

Proper drainage prevents water damage to your property’s foundation:

1. Clear debris from drain covers and grates
2. Check that water flows freely away from the property
3. Ensure downpipes and gutters are properly connected to drainage systems
4. Look for pooling water that might indicate blocked or damaged drains

Many of our customers in low-lying areas of Rustington and Ferring find this particularly important after winter storms have deposited debris around drainage points.

Garden Irrigation Systems

If you have garden irrigation:

1. Inspect all visible pipes for cracks or damage
2. Run the system at low pressure initially to check for leaks
3. Clean filters and check sprinkler heads for blockages
4. Test zone controls to ensure proper operation

Indoor Plumbing Checklist

Check for Hidden Leaks

Even small leaks can waste water and cause damage over time:

1. Read your water meter and then avoid using water for two hours
2. Check the meter again – any movement suggests a leak
3. Look for water stains on ceilings, walls, and under sinks
4. Check for musty odours that might indicate damp conditions

For homes in older parts of Brighton and Chichester, we often find that winter can exacerbate existing weaknesses in ageing plumbing systems.

Inspect Visible Pipes

Accessible pipes should be checked for:

1. Signs of corrosion or mineral build-up
2. Beads of water or dampness
3. Green staining on copper pipes (indicating pinhole leaks)
4. Unusual noises when water is running (knocking or rattling)

This is particularly important for properties in hard water areas like East Preston and Southwick, where limescale build-up occurs more rapidly.

Test Water Pressure

Low water pressure can indicate problems:

1. Run several taps simultaneously to test system pressure
2. Check shower flow rates for any reduction since winter
3. Consider a pressure gauge test if you suspect issues

We’ve frequently found pressure issues in hillside properties across Lancing that worsen after winter due to small leaks or pipe constraints.

Clean Aerators and Showerheads

Mineral deposits build up over time:

1. Unscrew and rinse aerators from all taps
2. Soak in vinegar solution if heavily scaled
3. Remove and clean showerheads similarly
4. Check for even water flow after cleaning

This simple maintenance step improves water flow and pressure while extending fixture life.

Hot Water System Checks

Water Heater Maintenance

Whether you have a cylinder or combi boiler:

1. Check for any water around the base of the unit
2. Listen for unusual noises during operation
3. Flush a small amount of water to remove sediment (cylinder systems)
4. Check pressure relief valve operation

For Worcester Bosch systems common across West Sussex, we recommend checking the pressure gauge sits at around 1-1.5 bar when cool.

 

Inspect Immersion Heaters

For properties with immersion heaters:

1. Check the thermostat is working correctly
2. Look for signs of leaks around the immersion element
3. Test the heating cycle to ensure proper function

 

Kitchen and Bathroom Focus

Address Slow Drains

Winter often brings drain issues that become apparent in spring:

1. Remove and clean drain stoppers and plugs
2. Use natural cleaners to clear minor blockages
3. Check drain vents are clear and unobstructed
4. Look for patterns of slow drainage that might indicate more serious blockages

For properties in older parts of Worthing and surrounding areas, we often find that tree root intrusion worsens during winter months.

 

Check Toilet Operation

Inspect toilets for efficient operation:

1. Check for leaks by adding food colouring to the cistern (it shouldn’t appear in the bowl without flushing)
2. Ensure the flush mechanism works properly
3. Listen for continuous running sounds
4. Check for cracks in the porcelain or connections

 

Inspect Seals and Grout

Water-tight seals prevent moisture damage:

1. Check silicone seals around baths, showers and sinks
2. Look for cracked or missing grout between tiles
3. Ensure seals around toilet bases are intact
4. Repair any compromised areas before they allow water ingress

This is particularly important in older properties across West Sussex where settlement can stress these seals during winter.

 

Appliance Checks

Washing Machine Maintenance

Your washing machine needs spring attention too:

1. Inspect hoses for bulging, cracking or leaking
2. Clean the filter according to manufacturer instructions
3. Run a hot empty cycle with washing machine cleaner
4. Check door seals for mould or damage

 

Dishwasher Care

Ensure efficient dishwasher operation:

1. Clean the filter and spray arms
2. Check the door seal is intact
3. Run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner
4. Inspect the drain hose for kinks or damage

 

When to Call in Professional Help

While many spring plumbing checks can be done yourself, certain signs you need plumbing professionals include:

• Persistent low water pressure despite clean aerators
• Water stains appearing on walls or ceilings
• Recurring drain blockages that resist DIY clearing
• Unusual sounds from your plumbing system
• Unexplained increases in water bills
• Foul odours coming from drains or taps

 

Preventative Measures for the Season Ahead

As we move into warmer months, consider these proactive steps:

1. Install water-saving devices on high-use taps
2. Consider water softeners if you’re in a hard water area like most of West Sussex
3. Apply preventative treatments to drains to reduce build-up
4. Schedule a professional plumbing inspection if your system is over 15 years old

 

Professional Plumbing Services

As local plumbing engineers serving the Worthing community and surrounding areas, we provide comprehensive spring plumbing checks that catch issues before they become emergencies. Our experienced team understands the specific challenges faced by properties in West Sussex, from hard water issues to the effects of coastal air on external plumbing.

If you’d prefer to leave your spring plumbing maintenance to the professionals, or if you’ve identified issues requiring expert attention, our team is ready to help. We offer thorough inspections, maintenance services, and repairs tailored to your property’s specific needs.

Contact N J Lees Plumbing & Heating today on 01903 530 851 or visit our contact page to arrange your professional plumbing check and ensure your home’s water systems are ready for the seasons ahead. With proper spring maintenance, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your plumbing system is in excellent condition.