As the winter thaw starts to melt away snow and ice, the cold weather may have affected your home’s plumbing. To get ahead of potential problems, spring is the time to have a professional plumber inspect pipes for any damage. If you’re concerned about the need for plumbing repairs, here are some easy tips you can do at home to identify early warning signs.

During the winter season, mineral deposits, old caulk, and rust may have accumulated around water supply valves. To remove the unwanted residue, rotate the valves, which are typically located under sinks. This step will help get rid of impediments that may stop water from flowing freely through pipes.

The start of spring is also a good time to thoroughly check for plumbing leaks. Faucets that continuously drip might be a sign of a bigger problem. A professional plumber is your best source for tackling small leaks immediately. The good news is the repair may be minor and only require a simple tightening or replacement part.

One effective way to tell if your toilet is leaking is by using food coloring. Squeeze a couple drops in the toilet tank and wait for at least 30 minutes. Check the toilet bowl to see if the food coloring made it the water. If so, there may be a leak present. Avoid using it and contact a plumber to make the repair before the problem becomes a costly one.