As winter fades and spring brings warmer days to the South Carolina coast, it’s time to give your home a seasonal refresh—starting with your plumbing system. Here in Murrells Inlet and throughout the Lowcountry, coastal weather can take a toll on pipes, drains, and outdoor fixtures, especially after colder months.
At At Your Service Plumbing and Drain Cleaning, we want to help you avoid surprise repairs and keep everything flowing smoothly. Use this spring plumbing maintenance checklist to protect your home and prepare for a worry-free season.
1. Check for Leaks Throughout Your Home
Even mild South Carolina winters can cause pipes to expand and contract, leading to hidden leaks. Start your spring plumbing check by inspecting under sinks, around toilets, and anywhere you can access exposed pipes. Look for:
- Drips or puddles
- Water stains or mildew
- Corrosion or rust on pipes
Small leaks can waste water and lead to costly damage if left unchecked.
2. Flush and Inspect Your Water Heater
With Murrells Inlet’s hard water and high humidity, sediment can build up quickly in your water heater. This reduces efficiency and can shorten its lifespan. We recommend:
- Flushing the tank to remove buildup
- Checking the thermostat setting (aim for 120°F)
- Inspecting for rust or moisture around the base
If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time for a professional inspection or replacement.
3. Test Your Sump Pump Before Spring Storms
Spring often brings heavy coastal rains to Murrells Inlet. Make sure your sump pump is ready:
- Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit
- The pump should activate and drain the water quickly
- If it doesn’t turn on or struggles to keep up, give us a call
A working sump pump is key to preventing flooding, especially in low-lying or flood-prone areas of the Lowcountry.
4. Clear Outdoor Drains and Gutters
Blown sand, pine needles, and debris from winter storms can clog outdoor drains and gutters, especially near the coast. Walk around your property and:
- Clear leaves from gutters and downspouts
- Check that water is draining away from your home’s foundation
- Remove blockages from outdoor drains and driveway channels
Good drainage helps prevent water pooling and foundation issues.
5. Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibbs
Before you hook up the garden hose for the season, check your outdoor faucets:
- Turn on water slowly and watch for leaks or drips
- Look inside your home for signs of pipe damage caused by freezing
- Replace cracked or worn-out hose bibbs
Frozen or damaged outdoor faucets are a common issue in early spring—and easy to fix if caught early.
6. Look for Slow Drains or Gurgling Pipes
Spring is a good time to pay attention to how your sinks, showers, and tubs are draining. If you notice:
- Water draining slowly
- Gurgling noises in your pipes
- Bad smells coming from drains
It could be a sign of a partial clog or sewer line issue—especially in older homes. Our drain cleaning service can clear things up quickly and safely.
7. Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
There’s no substitute for a professional set of eyes. At At Your Service Plumbing and Drain Cleaning, we’re proud to serve Murrells Inlet and surrounding areas with reliable, honest plumbing work. A spring inspection can catch issues early and give you peace of mind as we head into the humid months.
Get Your Murrells Inlet Plumbing Spring-Ready
Living near the water has its perks—but it also comes with unique plumbing challenges. Trust At Your Service Plumbing and Drain Cleaning to keep your coastal home in top shape this spring.
📞 Call us today to schedule your seasonal plumbing check or request drain cleaning service in Murrells Inlet, SC, and nearby Lowcountry communities.
