JR Hernandez’s 10 Spring Plumbing Checks for Austin Homes
Third-Generation Roots in Plumbing, Finding His Path Through Mentors and Hard Work, Building Infinity: A Legacy for Family and Austin, Why Austin Chooses Infinity Plumbing Solutions
10 Essential Spring Plumbing Checks for Austin Homes
Austin’s wild temperature swings and hard Central Texas water demand spring plumbing attention. JR Hernandez of Infinity Plumbing Solutions shares his top 10 homeowner checks to catch issues early, from sediment buildup to sneaky leaks, before the Texas summer hits. These steps protect your slab, home, water heater, and ultimately, your wallet.
- Flush Sediment from Tank Water Heaters, Descale Tankless & Ice Machines
Hard water leaves sediment that cuts efficiency 20-30%. Drain your tank heater fully (attach hose to valve, run till clear). For tankless units and ice makers, descale with vinegar solution per manufacturer specs. Pro inspection recommended for units over 5 years old.
- Clean Faucet Aerators and Showerheads
Minerals clog these fast in Austin. Unscrew, soak in vinegar 30 minutes, scrub, reinstall. Expect 10-20% better flow; low pressure often hides here before bigger PRV issues.
- Clear the Condensate Lines
AC drain lines clog with algae over winter. Pour 1 cup vinegar + 1 cup water down the line monthly. Slow flow? Use wet/dry vac on vent end. Prevents spring floods when AC kicks on.
- Exercise Your Water Shut-Off Valves
Locate and turn main valve, under-sink, toilet, and outdoor handles 1/4 turn both ways (don’t force it though). Austin code requires homeowner shut off post-meter – know it for emergencies. Stiff valves could mean corrosion, consider replacing them now.
- Inspect Outside Faucets and Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Valves for Pools
Check hose bibs and pool feed RPZ (backflow preventer) for cracks, drips, and winter splits. Insulate exposed pipes and check for leaks; a leaking RPZ wastes water and risks fines. You can test this by shutting off and on as well as watching for drops.
- Clear and Camera Slow Drains
Slow tubs and sinks scream partial blockages. Plunge first, then use an enzyme cleaner. If the issues persist, a camera aided sewer line cleanout may be necessary. Infinity spots roots, bellies, and cracks before full backups occur. Keep in mind that Austin clay soils shift lines yearly.
- Check Water Softener Salt Levels
Low salt = no softening = scale everywhere. Top off with pellets (not rock salt). Test regeneration cycle as Central Texas hardness (15+ grains/gallon) demands this. Skipping it can spell doom for heaters and pipes.
- Monitor Your Water Meter for Hidden Leaks
Turn off all fixtures, and note the meter dial. Any spin means a silent leak (usually slabs). Steady for 2 hours? You’re good. Constant drip adds $50+/month to your bills.
- Test Home Water Pressure and Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)
Gauge at outdoor faucet (aiming for 50-70 PSI). Lower or higher could mean the PRV diaphragm is stuck from hard water minerals. A Spring check prevents summer failures when irrigation and/or AC require maximum demand.
- Inspect Water Heater Expansion Tank
For fast triage with no tools, you can perform a ‘tap test’ and take note of the sound you hear; tap with your knuckles or a solid item that won’t puncture:
- Upper Part of the Tank: should sound hollow
- Lower Part of the Tank: should sound duller and more solid
If you hear the dull, solid sound all over, there is likely waterlogging or the bladder has failed, and you’ll want to contact Infinity Plumbing Solutions to come inspect the system.
When to Call Infinity Plumbing Solutions
These DIY checks take 1-2 hours but can uncover 80% of spring issues. Slab leaks, sewer cameras, PRV rebuilds, or tankless descaling? Leave them to the licensed pros. JR and his team can handle Austin’s hard water, clay soils, and seasonal chaos with precision.
Schedule your spring tune-up now: sewage, clogs, heaters, slabs, and more, all covered!