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Common Summer Plumbing Problems and How to Prevent Them
Summer is the season for fun, sun, barbecues, and vacations. However, the increased usage of water and warm weather can bring a host of plumbing problems. We’re here to help you keep your plumbing system in top shape all summer long. Here are some common summer plumbing issues and how you can prevent them.
Clogged Garbage Disposals:
Summer means more cookouts and fresh produce, leading to more food waste going down the garbage disposal. This can cause clogs and damage to your plumbing systems.
Prevention:
✔️ Be Mindful of What You Dispose: Avoid putting fibrous foods, coffee grounds, and grease down the disposal. These can cause clogs and damage the blades.
✔️ Run Cold Water: Always run cold water while using the disposal to help solidify grease and fats, making them easier to chop up.
✔️ Regular Cleaning: Clean your disposal regularly with a mixture of ice cubes and a small amount of dish soap to remove any buildup.
Sewer Line Backups
Heavy summer rains can overwhelm your sewer system, causing backups and unpleasant odors.
Prevention:
✔️ Install a Backwater Valve: This device prevents sewer backups by blocking the flow of water back into your home.
✔️ Clear Debris: Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris to ensure proper drainage away from your home.
✔️ Schedule Regular Inspections: Have your sewer lines inspected and cleaned regularly to prevent blockages.
Sprinkler System Issues
Increased use of your sprinkler system during the summer can lead to leaks, broken heads, and uneven watering.
Prevention:
✔️ Regular Inspections: Check your sprinkler system regularly for leaks and broken heads. Replace any damaged parts immediately.
✔️ Adjust Sprinkler Heads: Ensure sprinkler heads are properly adjusted to water only your lawn and garden, not the sidewalk or driveway.
✔️ Set Timers: Water your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation and conserve water.
Washing Machine Overload
With more outdoor activities and vacations, your washing machine might be working overtime, leading to potential leaks and malfunctions.
Prevention:
✔️ Don’t Overload: Avoid overloading your washing machine. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load sizes.
✔️ Inspect Hoses: Check the hoses for any signs of wear and tear, and replace them every few years to prevent leaks.
✔️ Use the Right Detergent: Use high-efficiency detergent if you have a high-efficiency washer to prevent excess suds and buildup.
Water Heater Issues
Increased demand for hot water during summer activities like showers after swimming can strain your water heater.
Prevention:
✔️ Lower the Temperature: Reduce the temperature on your water heater to 120°F to prevent scalding and save energy.
✔️ Schedule Maintenance: Have your water heater inspected and serviced regularly to ensure it’s running efficiently.
✔️ Insulate the Heater: Insulate your water heater and the first few feet of the hot water pipes to improve efficiency.
Outdoor Faucet Leaks
Increased use of outdoor faucets for gardening and car washing can lead to leaks and water waste.
Prevention:
✔️ Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect outdoor faucets for leaks and drips. Tighten connections or replace washers as needed.
✔️ Use a Hose Nozzle: Attach a shut-off nozzle to your garden hose to prevent water from constantly running when not in use.
✔️ Turn Off When Not in Use: Ensure outdoor faucets are turned off completely when not in use to prevent leaks.
Summer should be a time for relaxation and fun, not plumbing problems. By taking a few preventive measures, you can avoid common summer plumbing issues and keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly.
At All Needz Plumbing, we’re here to help with all your summer plumbing needs. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance check or for any emergency plumbing services and keep our number handy for any plumbing emergencies!
"By regularly inspecting and maintaining your home's systems, you can identify problems early on and fix them before they cause major damage."
