Lakeland Home Plumbing Calendar

January

Coolest month

0 of 3 done

Check that the main shut-off turns. See hurricane checklist.
Why it matters
A stuck valve costs minutes in an emergency.
When to get a pro: Have a seized valve replaced.
Keep covers ready for outdoor taps and backflow devices.
Why it matters
Cold snaps can still bring a freeze.
Check under sinks for drips.
Why it matters
Small leaks rot cabinets.

February

Late winter

0 of 3 done

Look at the water heater for rust or drips.
Why it matters
Leaks at the tank mean it's failing.
When to get a pro: A leaking tank needs replacing.
Test toilets for silent leaks with food coloring in the tank.
Why it matters
Color in the bowl means a leaking flapper.
Clean tap aerators.
Why it matters
Scale cuts flow.

March

Spring

0 of 3 done

Check irrigation lines and backflow devices before heavy use.
Why it matters
Freezes and mowers crack them.
When to get a pro: Backflow testing needs a certified tester.
Read the water meter with everything off. See slab leak signs.
Why it matters
Finds hidden leaks early.
Clear hair from shower drains.

April

Dry season

0 of 3 done

Check outdoor taps and hoses for leaks.
Why it matters
Small leaks waste a lot of water.
Look for very green or soggy patches over the sewer or septic line.
Why it matters
Can mean a leak.
Book any planned remodel plumbing.
Why it matters
Easier before storm season.

May

Before the storms

0 of 3 done

Test the main shut-off and label it.
Why it matters
Hurricane season starts June 1.
Make sure gutters and downspouts carry water away from the slab.
Pump the septic tank if it's due.
Why it matters
Easier before the wet season.
When to get a pro: Septic pumping is done by a septic contractor.

June

Hurricane season starts

0 of 3 done

Store drinking water containers.
Why it matters
Power cuts can stop wells and treatment plants.
Keep the water heater area clear.
Never pour cooking grease down the drain.
Why it matters
Summer cookouts clog drains.

July

Peak heat

0 of 3 done

Check the water heater's pressure relief valve line for drips.
Why it matters
A dripping valve can mean too much pressure.
When to get a pro: Have a plumber check it.
Water lawns early in the morning.
Why it matters
Less loss to evaporation.
Watch for slow drains after storms.
Why it matters
Saturated ground backs up older lines.

August

Storm season

0 of 3 done

Keep fridge and under-sink filters on schedule.
After big storms, cut water use for a day if you're on septic.
Why it matters
Gives the drain field time to recover.
Look for damp spots on ceilings after heavy rain.
Why it matters
Can be a roof or a pipe.

September

Peak hurricane season

0 of 3 done

Re-check stored water and your shut-off.
If flood water reached a gas water heater, don't relight it.
Why it matters
Controls can be damaged.
When to get a pro: Have a plumber inspect it.
Check the meter for leaks.

October

Cooling off

0 of 3 done

Book a camera inspection if drains have been slow. See drain cleaning.
Why it matters
Find roots and sags before the next wet season.
Flush a few gallons from the water heater drain if the maker recommends it.
Why it matters
Clears some sediment.
When to get a pro: Gas heaters: leave controls to a plumber.
Check the age of your water heater. See how old is my water heater.

November

Mild and dry

0 of 3 done

Buy insulating covers for outdoor taps. See can pipes freeze in Lakeland.
Why it matters
Cold snaps arrive with little warning.
Keep fats and peels out of the disposal.
Why it matters
Holiday cooking clogs sinks.
Check under the kitchen sink for leaks.

December

Cold snaps

0 of 3 done

On freeze-warning nights, cover outdoor taps and drip a cold tap.
Why it matters
Florida pipes aren't built for freezing.
Keep the heat on if you travel.
Never thaw a pipe with an open flame.
Why it matters
Use a hair dryer.
When to get a pro: Get a plumber if a pipe bursts.

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

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