Preparing Snowbird Properties: Plumbing Tips Before Returning to Lake Havasu for Winter

Each fall, thousands of snowbirds flock back to Lake Havasu to escape colder northern weather and enjoy Arizona’s sunshine. But after months away, it’s not unusual to return to a few surprises around the house—especially when it comes to your plumbing system.

Whether your Lake Havasu home has been sitting idle all summer or you’ve had it managed by a caretaker, taking time to inspect and re-activate your plumbing properly can prevent leaks, damage, or unpleasant odors from interrupting your winter retreat.

Here’s a step-by-step checklist from Thompson Family Plumbing to get your plumbing back in top shape before you settle in for the season.

Inspect the Property Before Turning On the Water

Before you turn on your main water supply, do a quick walkthrough around your home:

• Look for signs of leaks around outdoor spigots, irrigation lines, and the water heater.
  
• Check ceilings and walls for stains that might indicate hidden leaks.
  
• Listen for hissing or dripping sounds that could point to a broken valve or pipe.
  

If everything looks clear, slowly open the main water valve and let the system pressurize gradually. Rushing this process can lead to sudden bursts or leaks in weakened pipes.

Flush and Run All Fixtures

Over the summer, water can stagnate in pipes, causing unpleasant odors or mineral buildup.

Once your system is re-pressurized:

• Open each faucet one at a time to flush out standing water.
  
• Run showers and tubs for several minutes.
  
• Flush toilets twice to ensure tanks fill and drain properly.
  

Pro Tip: If your faucets sputter or spit air when first turned on, that’s normal—it’s just trapped air leaving the system.

Check the Water Heater

Your water heater may have been drained or turned off during the summer. Before restarting it:

• Make sure the tank is completely full of water before powering it on.
  
• Inspect connections for corrosion or leaks.
  
• If it’s been several years since your last maintenance, consider scheduling a professional flush and inspection.
  

This service removes sediment buildup—a common issue in the desert’s hard water—and helps your water heater run more efficiently all winter.

Test Outdoor Plumbing and Irrigation Systems

Lake Havasu homeowners rely on irrigation systems to keep landscaping green in the desert heat. But those systems can develop cracks or valve issues after sitting dormant.

Before running your sprinklers:

• Walk the yard and inspect irrigation lines for damage or leaks.
  
• Check drip emitters and sprinkler heads for clogs or misalignment.
  
• Turn on each zone briefly to make sure water flows evenly.
  

If you notice pooling, weak spray, or leaking valves, call Thompson Family Plumbing for a professional irrigation checkup before regular use.

Look for Odors or Sewer Gas Smells

If your home has been closed up for several months, it’s not uncommon to notice sewer odors when you first arrive. This often happens because the water in your P-traps (the curved part of pipes under sinks) has evaporated, allowing odors to escape.

To fix it:

• Run water in every sink and tub to refill the traps.
  
• Pour a cup of vinegar down drains to neutralize lingering smells.
  
• If the odor persists, have a plumber inspect your vent stack or sewer line for blockages.

Check Your Water Pressure and Quality

When reactivating plumbing after a long break, test both water pressure and quality.

• Weak pressure might indicate buildup, sediment, or a partially closed valve.
  
• Cloudy or rusty water can result from sitting too long in pipes.
  

If you notice any unusual color, smell, or taste, consider scheduling a whole-home plumbing inspection or installing a water filtration system to improve water quality for drinking and bathing.

Schedule a Professional Plumbing Tune-Up

Once you’ve done your basic checks, it’s smart to have a professional plumber perform a quick system tune-up. At Thompson Family Plumbing, our technicians can:

• Inspect for leaks or corrosion in hidden areas.
  
• Test water heater performance and pressure relief valves.
  
• Evaluate irrigation and outdoor plumbing for efficiency.
  
• Ensure your system is running safely and efficiently for the winter season.
  

Enjoy a Worry-Free Winter in Lake Havasu

Returning to your Lake Havasu home should feel relaxing—not stressful. By taking an hour or two to go through this plumbing checklist (and calling in a professional for backup), you can prevent unexpected repairs and enjoy your desert winter escape with peace of mind.

If you’re a snowbird returning to Lake Havasu and want to ensure your plumbing is ready for the season, call Thompson Family Plumbing today for a full pre-season inspection and maintenance service. Schedule your appointment before you settle in for the winter!