As the April showers arrive and the Swindon frost finally begins to disappear, it’s the perfect time to give your home a "health check." We often think of spring cleaning in terms of dusting shelves and clearing out the garage, but your plumbing system needs just as much attention after a long, cold winter.
At MPS Heating, we’ve been keeping Swindon homes warm and dry for over 30 years. To help you avoid nasty surprises, we’ve put together this essential guide to spring plumbing maintenance.
At MPS Heating, we’ve been keeping Swindon homes warm and dry for over 30 years. To help you avoid nasty surprises, we’ve put together this essential guide to spring plumbing maintenance.
1. Inspect Your Outdoor Taps for Winter Damage
One of the most common issues we see in April is the "hidden" burst pipe. Even if your pipes didn't freeze solid, the fluctuating Wiltshire temperatures can cause small cracks.
* The Test: Turn on your garden tap and place your thumb over the opening to create pressure. If you can easily stop the flow of water, there may be a leak in the pipe leading to the tap inside your wall.
2. Check for "Silent" Toilet Leaks
A running toilet can waste up to 400 litres of water a day, quietly hiking up your Thames Water bill.
* The Tip: Add a few drops of food colouring into the toilet tank. Don't flush. If colour appears in the bowl after 30 minutes, you have a leak.
3. Give Your Boiler a Post-Winter Rest
Your boiler has worked overtime since October. April is the ideal time to schedule your annual boiler service. By servicing it now, you avoid the autumn rush and ensure that any components stressed by winter are repaired before they cause a breakdown.
4. Clear Your Gutters and Downpipes
April showers can lead to localized flooding if your drainage is blocked by winter debris (leaves, moss, and silt). Ensure water is flowing freely away from your home's foundation to prevent dampness and structural issues.
5. Test Your Stopcock
Do you know where your internal stopcock is? More importantly, does it turn? In an emergency, such as a burst pipe, you need to be able to shut off your water instantly. If it's seized up, it's time to call a professional.
Why Choose MPS Heating?
Since 1993, MPS Heating has provided energy-efficient plumbing and heating solutions across Swindon. Whether you need a quick tap repair, a new bathroom installation, or a boiler upgrade, our Gas Safe registered team is here to help.
Need a hand with your spring plumbing?
Don't wait for a small drip to become a big flood.
Contact MPS Heating today for a free quote or call us on 01793 522579.
One of the most common issues we see in April is the "hidden" burst pipe. Even if your pipes didn't freeze solid, the fluctuating Wiltshire temperatures can cause small cracks.
* The Test: Turn on your garden tap and place your thumb over the opening to create pressure. If you can easily stop the flow of water, there may be a leak in the pipe leading to the tap inside your wall.
2. Check for "Silent" Toilet Leaks
A running toilet can waste up to 400 litres of water a day, quietly hiking up your Thames Water bill.
* The Tip: Add a few drops of food colouring into the toilet tank. Don't flush. If colour appears in the bowl after 30 minutes, you have a leak.
3. Give Your Boiler a Post-Winter Rest
Your boiler has worked overtime since October. April is the ideal time to schedule your annual boiler service. By servicing it now, you avoid the autumn rush and ensure that any components stressed by winter are repaired before they cause a breakdown.
4. Clear Your Gutters and Downpipes
April showers can lead to localized flooding if your drainage is blocked by winter debris (leaves, moss, and silt). Ensure water is flowing freely away from your home's foundation to prevent dampness and structural issues.
5. Test Your Stopcock
Do you know where your internal stopcock is? More importantly, does it turn? In an emergency, such as a burst pipe, you need to be able to shut off your water instantly. If it's seized up, it's time to call a professional.
Why Choose MPS Heating?
Since 1993, MPS Heating has provided energy-efficient plumbing and heating solutions across Swindon. Whether you need a quick tap repair, a new bathroom installation, or a boiler upgrade, our Gas Safe registered team is here to help.
Need a hand with your spring plumbing?
Don't wait for a small drip to become a big flood.
Contact MPS Heating today for a free quote or call us on 01793 522579.
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