Spring Cleaning Checklist: Don’t Forget Your Home’s Water Systems

Mar 13

4 min read

Close-up of a hand holding a notebook with a colorful "Cleaning Checklist." Sections labeled for kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. Relaxed setting.

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home and prepare it for the warmer months ahead. While many homeowners focus on deep cleaning their living spaces, organizing closets, and tackling yard work, one crucial area often gets overlooked—your home’s water systems. Plumbing, gutters, and sump pumps play a vital role in preventing water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs. Spring cleaning isn't just cleaning your home; it's taking the time to inspect and maintain it now, which can save you from major headaches later.

1. Inspect Your Plumbing for Leaks

Even small leaks can cause extensive damage over time. During spring cleaning, you should check your plumbing for water stains, mold growth, and structural issues.

✅ Check Faucets & Pipes – Look under sinks, behind toilets, and around appliances like dishwashers and washing machines for signs of moisture or drips.

✅ Examine Exposed Pipes – Pay attention to pipes in basements, garages, or crawl spaces, as they are more vulnerable to damage from winter freezing.

✅ Test Water Pressure – Low pressure can be a sign of hidden leaks or mineral buildup in pipes. If you notice any inconsistencies, call a plumber for an inspection.

✅Look for Water Stains & Musty Smells – Discoloration on walls or ceilings and a persistent damp odor may indicate a slow, hidden leak.

A gloved hand clears autumn leaves from a red-roofed house gutter. White siding and windows visible, evoking a tidy, fall scene.

2. Clean and Maintain Gutters & Downspouts

Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to water backing up onto your roof, siding, and foundation, causing leaks and structural issues.

✅ Remove Debris – Clear out leaves, twigs, and dirt from gutters to ensure proper water flow.

✅ Check for Clogs – Use a hose to flush out downspouts and make sure water is being directed away from your home’s foundation.

✅ Inspect for Damage – Look for cracks, rust, sagging, or separation between gutter sections. Repair or replace damaged areas as needed.

3. Test Your Sump Pump during spring cleaning

A sump pump is your home’s first line of defense against basement flooding. Ensuring it works properly can prevent major water damage during spring rains.

✅Run a Test Cycle – Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and verify that the pump activates and drains the water efficiently.

✅ Check the Backup Power – If your pump relies on electricity, make sure you have a battery backup in case of a power outage.

✅ Inspect the Discharge Line – Ensure the water is being discharged far enough from your home’s foundation to prevent pooling.

Water heater and blue tank in a beige room with wooden floor. A white panel is mounted on the wall above, with a closed black door nearby.

4. Inspect Your Water Heater

Your water heater works hard all year round, but sediment buildup or small leaks can reduce efficiency and lead to unexpected failures.

✅ Look for Rust or Leaks – Check around the base and connections for signs of corrosion or pooling water.

✅ Flush the Tank – Draining and flushing your water heater removes sediment buildup, improving performance and extending its lifespan.

✅Adjust the Temperature – Keep your water heater set to 120°F to prevent scalding while maintaining efficiency.

5. Examine Outdoor Water Systems

As temperatures rise, it’s important to check for any winter-related damage to outdoor plumbing and irrigation systems.

✅Inspect Hose Bibs & Spigots – Turn on outdoor faucets and check for leaks or unusual water pressure, which may indicate a frozen or burst pipe.

✅Test Sprinkler Systems – Run each zone to ensure proper operation and look for any broken or clogged sprinkler heads.

✅Clean & Store Hoses – Replace damaged hoses and store them properly to prevent future cracks.

Hand moving a furniture piece with an orange edge, revealing mold on a white corner wall. The mood is concerning due to visible damage.

6. Check for Signs of Mold & Moisture

Spring brings increased humidity, which can contribute to mold growth in damp areas of your home.

✅Inspect Basements & Crawl Spaces – Look for condensation, mold growth, or a musty smell.

✅Use a Dehumidifier – Keeping humidity levels under control helps prevent mold and mildew.

✅ Check Air Vents & HVAC Systems – Mold can spread through your HVAC system, so be sure to clean or replace air filters regularly.

7. Inspect Your Home’s Foundation & Drainage

Water pooling around your foundation can lead to cracks and basement leaks.

✅ Look for Foundation Cracks – Small cracks can expand over time, leading to serious structural damage.

✅ Ensure Proper Drainage – Make sure the soil around your home slopes away from the foundation to prevent water accumulation.

Why This Checklist Matters

Water damage is one of the most common and costly problems that homeowners face, often resulting in expensive repairs and insurance claims. During your spring cleaning, be sure to take the time to inspect and maintain your home’s water systems. By doing so, you can prevent issues before they arise.

If you notice signs of water damage, mold growth, or plumbing issues, don’t wait! Quick action can mean the difference between a simple repair and a full-scale restoration.

Need Help with Water Damage? Call Clean Way Restoration!

At C lean Way Restoration, we specialize in water damage restoration, mold remediation, and structural repairs. If you’re dealing with leaks, flooding, or moisture-related issues, our expert team is ready to help.