As the Manchester winter gives way to spring, the change in weather brings its own challenges for your home’s plumbing. We’re used to rain all year round, but the move from winter to spring in Greater Manchester throws up some specific plumbing problems. Between April showers and changing temperatures, here’s what to know to keep things flowing smoothly this spring.
We’ve been looking after Manchester homes since 2019, and we’ve seen first-hand how local weather affects plumbing. Our aim is to help you prevent problems before they start, because what looks like a minor issue today can become a major one tomorrow.
Common spring plumbing problems in Manchester
1. Pipe damage from winter freezes
Our winters are fairly mild by northern standards, but Manchester homes can still get frozen pipes, especially older properties with less insulation. Once temperatures stay above freezing and water pressure rises, small cracks can start to show.
What to look for: water stains on walls or ceilings (particularly in Victorian terraces), water bills going up for no clear reason, or the sound of running water when nothing is in use.
2. Damp or flooded cellars
Spring rain can be hard on homes with cellars or basements. Saturated ground and a rising water table can overwhelm drainage around the house.
What to look for: standing water in your cellar, musty smells, or a sump pump that runs constantly or not at all.
3. Signs of drainage trouble
With so much rain, spring showers can quickly expose drainage problems, particularly where the ground is heavy clay, which is common across the region. Tree roots looking for water after winter can also get into underground pipes.
What to look for: several plugholes backing up at once, gurgling toilets, or sewage smells in the house or garden, especially after heavy rain.
Underground and external drainage isn’t work we do, so if you spot these signs, a drainage specialist is the right call. Inside the house, we can help with leaking waste pipes, traps and toilets.
4. Outside taps and water butts
After a winter of not being used, outdoor plumbing can develop problems just as you start on the garden. Many homes have water butts that may have sprung a leak or become blocked over the winter.
What to look for: a leaking outside tap, damaged water butt connections, or wet patches in the garden that rain doesn’t explain.
How often should you have your plumbing checked?
Given our climate and the age of many local homes, we recommend having your plumbing looked over at least once a year, ideally in early spring. Older properties (over 50 years old) and homes in areas prone to flooding may benefit from a check twice a year, in spring and autumn. For newer builds, a yearly spring check is usually enough to catch winter damage and get ready for the months ahead.
Limescale and Manchester water
Manchester’s water is moderately hard compared with other parts of the UK. It isn’t as hard as in the south-east of England, but it still carries minerals that build up in pipes and appliances over time. In winter, with the heating working hard, limescale can build up faster, and in spring it often becomes more noticeable as you use more water in the garden.
As part of your spring routine, check shower heads, taps and your boiler for scale. If you live in a harder-water area, it may be worth looking into a water softener.
Get ready for a worry-free spring
A little prevention now can save you hassle and cost later. With Manchester’s mix of older housing and plenty of rain, dealing with small problems before they grow is especially important.
Spring is a good time to get your plumbing checked, so any winter damage is found and fixed before summer. Get in touch and we’ll take a look.
