Summer Plumbing Checklist: Don’t Let Plumbing Problems Ruin Your Fun
Summer brings warm weather, pool days, outdoor gatherings, and an increased reliance on your home’s plumbing system. The change in season often puts additional strain on pipes, fixtures, and the overall system. By following this simple summer plumbing checklist, you can prevent costly repairs and stay worry-free as temperatures rise.
Mercy Plumbing is here 24/7 for any and all questions
1. Check Your Sprinkler System
A broken sprinkler head or underground leak can waste a tremendous amount of water and rack up your water bill. Often times, broken sprinkler heads or pipes can go unnoticed. Inspect each sprinkler head thoroughly for cracks, leaks, or misalignment. Turn on your system and confirm that water is reaching all designated areas and the sprinklers are functioning correctly. For more information on water-efficient sprinkler practices, check out the EPA’s WaterSense program (https://www.epa.gov/watersense).
2. Inspect Outdoor Faucets & Hoses
Check your hose bibs (outdoor faucets) for leaks or damage. Over the winter months, they may have become frozen, causing cracks you don’t notice until you turn them on. Replace any cracked or leaking faucets before the summer heat makes the damage worse. Also, examine your hoses for wear and tear. Any brittle spots or leaks can cause them to burst and create a mess.
3. Get Your Water Heater Serviced
Sediment buildup in your water heater can cause leaks, reduced efficiency and ruin fixtures throughout your home. Schedule a professional water heater flush to remove sediment and ensure your unit is working optimally. A well-maintained water heater is will provide hot water on demand all summer long and ensure you get the most out of your water system. Don’t forget to check the temperature setting to ensure you’re not wasting energy by overheating water. The Department of Energy provides guidance on water heater energy savings (https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating).
4. Conquer Clogged Drains
Summer cookouts and increased use of showers can take their toll on your drains. Prevent slow drains or backups by tackling clogs proactively. If you notice slow-draining sinks or tubs, try a natural drain cleaner like a baking soda and vinegar solution. For stubborn clogs, consider investing in a drain snake. For more complex clogs, a professional drain cleaning service ([link to a reputable local plumbing service]) might be necessary.
5. Address Toilet Troubles
Nobody wants to deal with a toilet that runs constantly or won’t flush properly. Make sure your toilets are ready for summer by checking for leaks or running water. You can add a drop of food coloring to the tank to see if it seeps into the bowl. A faulty flapper or fill valve is often the culprit. You can find many helpful DIY toilet repair tutorials online ([link to a YouTube channel or website with tutorials]).
6. Maintain Your Air Conditioner
While technically not a plumbing task, your AC unit’s condensate drain line often ties into your plumbing system. A clogged line can cause water damage. Ensure the drain line is free from debris and functioning smoothly. You can often do this yourself or have a qualified HVAC technician check it during your annual AC maintenance.
Additional Summer Plumbing Tips
- Know where your main water shut-off valve is. In case of a plumbing emergency, you’ll want to be able to stop the flow of water quickly.
- Invest in water-efficient fixtures. Water-conserving showerheads and faucets can save money on your water bill.
- Fix minor leaks promptly. Even a tiny drip can waste gallons of water over time.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a summer of stress-free plumbing and focus on the fun!
