How to use the calendar

Lakewood's weather sets the rhythm. Winters bring cold snaps that freeze exposed pipes. Spring brings heavy wet snow and the first thunderstorms. Summer means hail, sudden downpours and swamp coolers running full time. Fall is the time to shut down outdoor water before the first hard freeze.

Put the checks below in your phone calendar. Each one takes a few minutes and costs nothing beyond a flashlight, and several of them catch problems that would otherwise surface as a stain on a ceiling months later.

The year at a glance

January and February
During cold snaps, open sink cabinets on outside walls, keep the garage door closed and watch for slow faucets.
March
After heavy wet snow, check that melt is draining away from the foundation and that window wells are not filling.
April
Clean window wells and gutters. Test the sump pump if you have one by pouring water into the pit.
May
Start up the evaporative 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 hailstorms, look at the roof edges, cooler cabinet and 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 indoor valves to outside faucets and blow out sprinkler lines.
November and December
Confirm you can reach and turn the main shutoff. Set up a plan for someone to check the house if you travel.

Once-a-year items that are easy to forget

  • Replace rubber washing machine hoses that are cracked or bulging; braided hoses last longer but still wear.
  • 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.
  • Watch the water meter with all fixtures off; 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.