Homeowner guideSeasonal
Spring Plumbing Checklist for Markham
Spring in Markham brings thaw, rain and the first warm days. A quick plumbing check now can head off flooding and leaks.
Elegant family home set against a vibrant autumn forest backdrop.
- Short steps a homeowner can follow safely
- What to check before you pick up the phone
- Clear signs it is time to call a plumber
- Markham and York Region notes where they matter
- Licensing details confirmed when you call
- Residential
- Commercial
- Markham & York Region
The short version
- Turn on outdoor faucets and check for leaks inside the basement wall.
- Look for damage to hose bibs from winter freezing.
- Clear eavestroughs and downspouts.
- Extend downspouts away from the foundation.
- Check that the sump discharge line is clear and not frozen.
Basement
- Empty a pail into the sump pit and confirm the motor switches on.
- Check the backwater valve flap.
- Look for damp spots on walls and floors.
- Pour water into floor drains to fill the traps.
- Check the water heater for leaks and rust.
Kitchen and bathrooms
- Look under sinks for drips.
- Check toilets for running water.
- Clean faucet aerators and showerheads.
- Check caulk around tubs and showers.
Appliances
- Inspect washing machine hoses for bulges or cracks.
- Check dishwasher connections.
- Check fridge water lines.
From the van: Spring is a good time to flush your water heater if you did not do it in the fall.
Plan ahead
If the sump pump is getting on, the water heater is approaching retirement, or you plan a basement renovation, spring is a good time to book work before summer storm season.
Irrigation start-up
If you have an in-ground sprinkler system, turn its supply on slowly and walk the zones. Freeze damage often shows as a geyser at one head or a soggy patch along a buried line. The backflow preventer that protects your drinking water should also be checked; Markham has testing rules for these devices, so confirm the current requirements.