The Most Common Plumbing Issues in Spring – What Phoenix Homeowners Should Watch For
As spring approaches in Phoenix, homeowners often focus on cleaning, organizing, and preparing for warmer weather. However, one important task that shouldn’t be overlooked is checking your plumbing system. Seasonal changes can bring specific plumbing issues that, if ignored, could lead to costly repairs down the road.
At Armstrong Plumbing, we help homeowners stay ahead of potential problems with expert plumbing inspections and maintenance. Here are the most common spring plumbing issues and how to prevent them.
1. Leaky Pipes & Faucets
Spring is the perfect time to check for leaky pipes and dripping faucets that may have worsened over the winter. Even in Phoenix’s mild climate, fluctuating temperatures can cause small cracks in pipes, leading to leaks that waste water and increase utility bills.
Signs of Leaky Pipes & Faucets:
✅ Unexplained increase in water bills
✅ Dripping sounds even when taps are off
✅ Water stains on ceilings or walls
✅ Soft or damp spots near sinks or appliances
🛠 Solution: Don’t ignore small leaks! Even a minor drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water per year. Armstrong Plumbing can inspect and repair leaks before they cause serious damage.
2. Clogged Drains & Sewer Line Backups 🚽🚿
With increased outdoor activities and seasonal showers, drains and sewer lines can become clogged due to:
- Hair, soap scum, and grease buildup from regular household use
- Tree roots growing into underground sewer lines
- Heavy spring rains causing debris to clog drain systems
Signs of Drain & Sewer Line Issues:
✅ Slow-draining sinks, showers, or tubs
✅ Gurgling sounds in drains
✅ Unpleasant sewage odors
✅ Water backing up in multiple drains
🛠 Solution: Schedule a professional drain cleaning or hydro jetting service to clear out debris and prevent backups before they become an emergency.
3. Low Water Pressure
Spring is the season when many homeowners notice a drop in water pressure. This could be caused by:
- Sediment buildup in pipes
- Corroded or aging plumbing lines
- Hidden leaks reducing pressure
Signs of Low Water Pressure:
✅ Slow-filling sinks and bathtubs
✅ Weak water flow from showerheads
✅ Appliances (dishwasher, washing machine) taking longer to run
🛠 Solution: Armstrong Plumbing can inspect your pipes to determine whether the issue is a clog, a hidden leak, or a more serious plumbing problem.
4. Water Heater Problems
Your water heater has been working hard all winter, and by spring, sediment buildup inside the tank can cause problems, reducing efficiency and performance.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Maintenance:
✅ Lukewarm or inconsistent water temperature
✅ Rumbling or popping noises from the tank
✅ Rust-colored water coming from taps
✅ Increased energy bills
🛠 Solution: Flushing your water heater in the spring removes sediment and extends the lifespan of your unit. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider upgrading to a Navien tankless water heater for energy savings and unlimited hot water.
5. Outdoor Plumbing & Hose Bib Issues
Spring means more outdoor watering, and leaking hose bibs or damaged sprinkler systems can waste water and drive up your bills. Freezing temperatures during the winter, even in Arizona, can cause cracks in outdoor faucets, pipes, and sprinkler lines.
Signs of Outdoor Plumbing Issues:
✅ Dripping outdoor faucets
✅ Puddles around your yard despite no recent rain
✅ Sprinkler heads not functioning properly
🛠 Solution: Inspect your outdoor plumbing for leaks and damage. Armstrong Plumbing can repair hose bibs, outdoor faucets, and irrigation-related plumbing issues.
6. Garbage Disposal Overload
Spring means family gatherings, backyard BBQs, and seasonal cooking, which often lead to garbage disposal overload. Some of the most common items that clog or damage disposals include:
❌ Eggshells
❌ Coffee grounds
❌ Grease and oil
❌ Fibrous veggies (celery, corn husks, potato peels)
🛠 Solution: If your garbage disposal is clogged, jammed, or making strange noises, Armstrong Plumbing can repair or replace it with a brand-new unit to keep your kitchen running smoothly.
7. Slab Leaks & Foundation Issues
Spring is the season when hidden slab leaks become more noticeable. These leaks occur in pipes beneath your home’s foundation and can cause severe structural damage if left untreated.
Signs of a Slab Leak:
✅ Unexplained wet spots on floors
✅ Higher-than-normal water bills
✅ Cracks in walls or flooring
✅ Moldy or musty odors
🛠 Solution: Armstrong Plumbing specializes in slab leak detection and repair. If you suspect a slab leak, act fast to prevent major foundation damage.
Get Your Plumbing Spring-Ready with Armstrong Plumbing!
Spring is the perfect time to schedule a plumbing inspection and take care of any small issues before they turn into major repairs. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, slow drain, water heater maintenance, or slab leak detection, Armstrong Plumbing has you covered.
📞 Schedule your spring plumbing inspection today!
Don’t let plumbing problems disrupt your spring—let Armstrong Plumbing keep your home running smoothly! 💧🏡
