Spring in the Denver Metro area is famous for its unpredictability. One day it’s 70 degrees, and the next we’re dealing with a late-season blizzard. While you might be ready to finally pack away the heavy coats, your home’s plumbing and HVAC systems need a little help adjusting with proper maintenance. This is especially important after a long, hard Colorado winter.
Before the summer heat fully sets in, taking a few proactive steps can save you from unexpected breakdowns. In addition, you can avoid costly emergency repairs, especially with smart maintenance habits.
1. Check for the “Hidden” Winter Freeze
The most common springtime plumbing disaster actually happens in December—you just don’t notice it until April. If you accidentally left a garden hose attached during a hard freeze, the water inside the spigot (hose bibb) likely froze and expanded. As a result, the pipe right inside your wall could crack. Regular pipe maintenance can help prevent these surprises.
What to do: When you turn on your outdoor water for the first time this spring, go into your basement or crawlspace and check the wall right behind the spigot. If you see water dripping or pooling, shut off the valve immediately. Then call a professional to replace the fixture.
2. How does Colorado clay soil affect my plumbing?
The Denver area is built on bentonite clay, which is notorious for expanding when it absorbs water from melting snow and spring rain. This constant swelling and shrinking puts immense pressure on your underground plumbing and sewer lines. Because of this, they can shift, belly, or even break. It’s wise to prioritise ongoing maintenance for your underground systems.
If you notice slow drains, gurgling toilets, or an unexplained spike in your water bill, your underground lines might have been compromised. When underground pipes break, ensuring the correct “fall” (slope) and providing solid physical support is critical. Consequently, traditional excavation is the only reliable way to guarantee the pipe is graded perfectly and won’t fail you again.
3. The Great HVAC Pivot: From Heating to Cooling
It is tempting to just flip the thermostat from “Heat” to “Cool” on the first 80-degree day, but your AC has been sitting idle for months. During that time, dust and debris have likely settled on the coils. Also, the capacitor hasn’t been tested. For best performance, regular HVAC maintenance is essential.
Your Spring HVAC Maintenance Checklist:
-
Change the filter: Your furnace filter worked overtime this winter. Start the AC season with a fresh one to maximize airflow and keep your energy bills low. Filter maintenance can make a noticeable difference.
-
Clear the perimeter: Go outside and check your AC condenser unit. Clear away any dead leaves, overgrown bushes, or debris that blew in over the winter. The unit needs at least two feet of clearance to breathe properly. Routine maintenance will protect your equipment.
-
Schedule a tune-up: Having a licensed technician check your refrigerant levels, inspect electrical connections, and clean the coils ensures your system won’t die on the hottest day of July. These maintenance steps are vital.
Trust the Local Experts
Colorado homes require specialized care. Since 1957, Befort Plumbing & Heating has been helping families across Englewood and the broader metro area navigate our unique climate. Whether you need a springtime AC tune-up, a water heater inspection, or a reliable repair for a broken pipe, our family is here to take care of yours. Expert maintenance is part of the service we offer.
Don’t wait for a small leak to become a major flood. Click Here to schedule your spring inspection today!