Smart Homeowner’s Guide to Plumbing and HVAC Maintenance
Every homeowner in Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs knows that maintaining your home’s vital systems isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your investment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you keep your plumbing and HVAC systems running smoothly throughout the year.
Plumbing Maintenance Tips
1. Regular Drain Care
– Never pour grease down kitchen drains
– Use water-safe drain cleaners monthly
– Install drain strainers in all sinks
– Run hot water after using garbage disposals
2. Prevent Frozen Pipes
– Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces
– Keep garage doors closed during winter
– Let faucets drip during extreme cold
– Know where your main water shutoff valve is located
3. Water Heater Maintenance
– Flush the tank annually
– Check the pressure relief valve
– Inspect for leaks or rust
– Set temperature to 120°F for optimal efficiency
HVAC System Care
1. Air Conditioning Maintenance
– Replace air filters every 1-3 months
– Clean outdoor unit of debris
– Check condensate drain lines
– Schedule professional maintenance before summer
2. Heating System Tips
– Test your heating system before winter
– Keep vents unobstructed
– Check carbon monoxide detectors
– Inspect furnace flame color (should be blue)
Preventive Measures
1. Regular Inspections
– Check visible pipes quarterly
– Listen for unusual sounds
– Monitor water pressure
– Watch for unusual odors
2. Seasonal Preparation
– Remove and store hoses before winter
– Clean gutters and downspouts
– Insulate attic pipes
– Schedule bi-annual professional inspections
When to Call Professionals
While DIY maintenance is important, some situations require professional attention:
– Persistent clogs or slow drains
– Unusual sounds from HVAC systems
– Water pressure changes
– Visible water damage
– Strange odors from drains or vents
– No hot water
– Unusually high utility bills
Money-Saving Tips
– Install programmable thermostats
– Use water-efficient fixtures
– Address small issues before they become major problems
– Keep detailed maintenance records
– Consider upgrading to energy-efficient systems
Remember that preventive maintenance is always more cost-effective than emergency repairs. Following these guidelines can help extend the life of your home’s systems and maintain their efficiency.
For Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs residents, seasonal maintenance is particularly important due to our unique climate conditions. Extreme temperature changes can stress both plumbing and HVAC systems, making regular maintenance crucial for system longevity.
By following these maintenance tips and knowing when to call professionals, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your home’s comfort systems operate efficiently year-round. When in doubt, it’s always better to consult with qualified professionals who can properly diagnose and address potential issues before they become serious problems.
