As the Greater Toronto Area and York Region gear up for another glorious summer, cottage owners eagerly anticipate that first escape to the tranquillity of their lakeside haven. But before you dive into relaxation mode, take a moment to ensure your plumbing is ready for the season. Here at Black Forest Plumbing, your reliable service provider for all your plumbing needs, we've compiled some essential tips to get your cottage plumbing system singing for summer.
Reviving the Water Pump/Water Supply
Turn on the shutoff valve for the water pump, which is usually located near the pressure tank. If there is a well in your cottage, make sure that the well cap is secure.
Refer to your pump's manual for specific priming directions, which usually entails filling the pump with water through a designated port.
After priming, turn on the pump and listen for unusual noises or vibrations. If you notice anything unusual, like grinding or excessive clanging, don't hesitate to contact Black Forest Plumbing.
Ensure that the pump, pressure tank, and pipe connections are not leaking by opening all taps inside and outside the cottage.
Waking Up the Hot Water Tank
Reconnect the power supply to your hot water tank, ensuring all connections are secure.
For safety reasons, turn off the cold-water inlet valve at the bottom of the tank before reactivating the electrical supply. This will prevent the tank from heating up without water.
Before turning on the cold-water supply, releasing any built-up pressure in tanks with a pressure relief valve may be necessary. Consult your manual to determine if this is necessary.
If the hot water is not reaching the desired temperature or is taking a long time to reach the taps, there may be a problem with the heating element or thermostat. Black Forest Plumbing can diagnose and fix the problem to ensure a steady flow of hot water.
Checking the Septic System
Check for water or sewage pooling around the septic tank drain field, which could indicate a clog or malfunctioning system.
If you smell strong sewage odours near the vent stack or drain field, it could indicate problems.
The septic tank pumping frequency may vary depending on your cottage's usage and size. If necessary, schedule a septic tank inspection and pumping with a licensed professional.
Watch for Winter's Wrath
Inspect exposed pipes, particularly near exterior walls or crawl spaces, for cracks or leaks caused by freezing temperatures over the winter.
Inspect the toilet bowls and tank connections for any cracks or leaks that may have occurred during the winter.
Check for leaks around the faucet and shower head connections after turning on the shower.
Book an Appointment for Cottage Plumbing
Follow these tips and schedule a pre-season inspection with Black Forest Plumbing to prepare your cottage plumbing for a worry-free summer of relaxation. Contact us today for a free consultation across the GTA and York Region, including Newmarket, Aurora, Barrie and surrounding areas.
Our licensed and experienced plumbers can deal with any plumbing issues you might have, ensuring a smooth start to your summer getaway. Let us help you get your cottage ready for a fantastic summer season!