Helpful Maintenance Plumbing Tips for Basements

At Trinity Plumbing, we believe in the importance of proactively preventing plumbing problems to keep your plumbing functioning smoothly. To aid in this effort, Robert (owner & Master Plumber) would like to share some practical plumbing tips for common issues that you may encounter with the plumbing in your basement.

Avoid Basement Plumbing Problems

There are some special maintenance plumbing tips for basements. Here are a few maintenance tips to help you avoid plumbing problems.

Basement

Check for leaks: Basements are susceptible to water damage, so it’s important to regularly check pipes, faucets and toilets for leaks.
Clean floor drains: Clean floor drains regularly to prevent clogs and potential backups.
Keep gutters clear: Remove leaves, debris, and other clogging materials from yard drains, gutters, and downspouts. It’s important to ensure that rainwater is properly channeled away from your home to avoid foundation issues, crawl space moisture problems, and basement water damage.
Regularly inspect the sewer lines: Regularly inspect the sewer lines to ensure they are free of blockages, cracks, and damage.
Winterize: Insulate pipes to prevent freezing in cold weather. Prior to winter, have your basement inspected by a professional to spot potential freeze areas and other winterization issues.
Schedule routine maintenance: Schedule routine maintenance with a professional plumber to catch potential problems early and ensure your basement plumbing is in good working condition.

Sump Pumps

Install a Sump Pump: If your basement is prone to flooding, install a sump pump to remove excess water and prevent water damage.
Clean Pit: Keep the sump pump and pit clean and clear of debris.
Check: Check the float switch and cord regularly to ensure they are working properly.
Test Regularly: Test the sump pump regularly by pouring water into the pit to see if it activates and drains correctly.
Inspect: Inspect the discharge pipe for cracks, leaks, or clogs, and clear any debris that may be obstructing the pipe.
Battery Backup: Consider installing a backup battery for the sump pump in case of power outages.
Upgrade / Replacement: Replace the sump pump every 5-10 years or as needed to ensure it continues to function properly.
Inspection: Have a professional inspect the sump pump annually to ensure it is working efficiently.

By following these basement plumbing maintenance tips, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your plumbing system functioning smoothly. Remember, it’s always better to be proactive and address small issues before they become big problems. If you need assistance with sump pumps, drain cleaning, and other basement plumbing concerns, contact Trinity Plumbing.