How to use the calendar

Lakewood's weather sets the rhythm. Winter brings cold snaps that freeze exposed pipes. Spring brings heavy wet snow and the first thunderstorms. Summer means hail, sudden downpours and swamp coolers running all day. Fall is when you shut down outdoor water before the first hard freeze.

Put the checks below in your phone calendar. Each one takes a few minutes and a flashlight, and several catch problems that would otherwise show up months later as a stain on a ceiling.

The year at a glance

January and February
In a cold snap, open the sink cabinets on outside walls, keep the garage door closed and watch for slow faucets.
March
After heavy wet snow, check that the melt drains away from the foundation and the window wells aren't filling.
April
Clean out window wells and gutters. If you have a sump pump, test it by pouring water into the pit.
May
Start up the swamp cooler: inspect the pan and float, reconnect the supply line and watch for drips.
May or June
Start the sprinkler system and walk the yard while each zone runs, looking for heads spraying the house.
July and August
After a hailstorm, look over the roof edges, the cooler cabinet and the window wells for damage.
September
Check the water heater area, washer hoses and visible supply lines for corrosion or bulges.
October
Drain and shut down the cooler and its line, disconnect hoses, close the indoor valves to outside faucets and blow out the sprinkler lines.
November and December
Make sure you can reach and turn the main shutoff. If you travel, line up someone to check the house.

Once-a-year checks that are easy to forget

  • Replace rubber washer hoses that are cracked or bulging. Braided hoses last longer but still wear out.
  • Look under every sink with a flashlight for drips and soft cabinet floors.
  • Check the caulk and grout around tubs and showers.
  • Read the water heater data plate to learn its age.
  • With every fixture off, watch the water meter. If it moves, something is leaking.

Lakewood weather triggers to watch

Cold snaps
Sharp drops after mild days are when exposed pipes freeze
Spring snow
Heavy, wet snow melts fast against foundations
Summer storms
Short, intense rain and hail overwhelm gutters and wells
First fall freeze
Cooler lines, hose bibs and sprinkler backflow devices are at risk

General information for Lakewood, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.