The City of Findlay Water/Sewer Billing Office would like to remind our valued customers that it is the time of year when we begin to see the warmer weather and grass growing. 

 Sprinkler Systems

For residents who choose to utilize a sprinkler system for their lawn, please do not forget to have your backflows inspected.  Backflow must be inspected annually and if you have not had water service turned on in several years, you are required to have an inspection done within 10 days of reinstating service.

 For more information about backflow devices or to see the City of Findlay's list of certified backflow inspectors visit: https://www.findlayohio.gov/backflow.

 De-Winterize

If you’ve turned your water off for the winter season, there could be some buildup behind the aerators over your spigots and faucets. Before you begin any other steps to turn the water supply back on, remove all aerators to let the buildup drain.  This is also a good time to clean your aerators and any filters or screens of debris. 

 Turn Off or Removal of Heating Devices

Make sure you've turned off and unplugged or removed any heat tapes or space heaters that may have been utilized to protect your water pipes throughout the winter months.  

 Flushing Fixtures

Next, flush all indoor and outdoor fixtures one at a time to allow fresh water to reach them for a minimum of 10 seconds or until any debris or air has been removed from the lines.  

This is also a great time to inspect your plumbing for the possibility of leaks or damage if those lines have been isolated or unused for an extended period of time.

 Check Toilets

Sometimes you can hear a toilet running. There are also leaks that are considered silent toilet leaks. Here are two visual tests that you can do to help you check your toilet for a leak:

1. Dye Test: Flush the toilet and wait 5 minutes for it to refill. Remove the toilet tank lid and put several drops of food coloring to color the tank water. Do not flush the toilet at this point. Check the toilet bowl every 10 minutes for the next 45 minutes. If any colored water gets into the toilet bowl, then you have a leak in the toilet. Flush the remaining colored water through. You need to fix the toilet.

2. Stand Tube Test: Flush the toilet and wait 5 minutes for it to refill. Remove the toilet tank lid. Sprinkle some powder on the top of the water. If the water level is too high, you will see the powder on top of the water drain down into the stand tube. This type of leak in your toilet is silent. You will need to adjust the water level to an inch below the stand tube.

 Additional Cleaning Up

This is a great opportunity, if capable, to clean and inspect your gutters, roofing, siding, etc. while enjoying the warm weather!

What To Do When a Pipe Breaks