Keep Your Plumbing Cool: Essential Summer Plumbing Tips

As the temperature rises and summer approaches (don’t worry, it’ll get her sooner or later), it’s time to shift our focus to summer plumbing tips. From sump pumps to sprinkler systems, your plumbing plays a crucial role in keeping your home running smoothly during the warmer months.

Let’s look at some essential summer plumbing tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and keep your plumbing in top shape. Whether you’re preparing for summer thunderstorms or looking to save on your water bill, read on to learn how to protect your plumbing system this summer.

1. Check Your Sump Pump Before the Storm Hits

Depending on how your house is situated, you may have a sump pump in place to take care of any pooling water during the rainy months. However, summer storms can be even more impactful because the ground won’t suck up as much of the moisture as it did in the Fall, Winter, and Spring.

A malfunctioning sump pump can lead to water damage in your basement or utility closet, or even the garage or foundation of your home if it’s an external pump. Take the time to inspect your sump pump before the storm season hits. Check for any wear or damage signs and ensure the pump is properly connected and functioning. For exterior units, make sure it is clear of leaves and debris that might have accumulated earlier in the year.

2. Spruce Up Your Sprinkler System

A lush green lawn is a hallmark of summer, but it requires proper maintenance to stay healthy. Your sprinkler system plays a vital role in keeping your lawn hydrated, so it’s essential to give it some TLC before the summer heat sets in. Consider installing a smart irrigation system to optimize water usage and save on your water bill.

Inspect your sprinkler heads and check for leaks or signs of damage (perhaps a mower setting was too low), and replace any faulty components as needed. Adjust the sprinkler heads to ensure even coverage and avoid wasting water. When testing the sprinklers, does the pressure seem too low, or not getting the coverage you’re used to? There could be a break in the water line–this could lead to massive water bills down the line.

3. Beat the Heat: Protect Your Plumbing System

Summer is the best time to tackle plumbing maintenance tasks and address any potential issues before they escalate. From leaky faucets to condensation on pipes, here are some tips to keep your plumbing system cool and functioning properly.

While toilets can clog any time of the year, summer brings extra use when children are home from school and friends come to visit. Most clogs are easy to clear with just a simple plunger, but some require additional assistance, especially if they have built up over a season or two. Meticulous Plumbing is ready and able to help; no job is too small, or too large.

Washing Machine Issues
If your kids are out of school and running around the yard or playing sports, you may be washing much more laundry than before, which can put stress on your machine. Do yourself a favor and stay at home while your machine is going, so if you encounter a problem you can troubleshoot it immediately. Another good practice is to move the machine out from the wall as far as you can to keep the hose loose and free of kinks.

Clogged Garbage Disposal
If you are having cookouts or parties this Memorial Day or July 4 or any day really, proper disposal of food should be top of mind. Avoid dropping those watermelon rinds or corn cobs into the kitchen sink garbage disposal, as this mechanism does not handle hard organic material very well and can get damaged or develop a serious clog in minutes.

Cooking oils can also damage garbage disposal systems, so be sure to flush your system with cold water if you pour grease down the drain after grilling. Finally, be aware of friendly but tipsy relatives who want to help around the kitchen and may accidentally toss the wrong items down the chute, causing instant damage despite their best intentions.

Insulate Exposed Pipes
Condensation on pipes can lead to moisture buildup and potential damage to your home. Insulate exposed pipes in the basement, garage, or utility closet to prevent condensation and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

4. Be Mindful of Extra Water Usage

With summer comes extra water usage, whether it’s watering the lawn, filling up the kiddie pool, or washing the car. While enjoying these summer activities, it’s essential to be mindful of your water usage to avoid putting a strain on your plumbing system.

Keep an eye on your water/utility bill for any unexpected spikes in usage, which could indicate a leak or other plumbing issue. Addressing leaks promptly can help prevent water damage and save you money in the long run.

FAQs About Summer Plumbing Maintenance

To address some common questions homeowners may have about summer plumbing maintenance, here are five FAQs:

How often should I check my sump pump?
It’s a good idea to inspect your sump pump at least once a year, ideally before the storm season begins. Additionally, test your sump pump regularly by pouring water into the sump pit to ensure it activates properly. Clear away any leaves and debris on exterior sump pumps.

How can I protect my outdoor water hose during the summer?
To prevent your outdoor water hose from becoming damaged or worn out in the summer heat, store it in a shaded area when not in use and avoid leaving it exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.

What should I do if I notice condensation on my pipes?
Condensation on pipes can indicate high humidity levels or inadequate insulation. Consider installing insulation on exposed pipes to prevent condensation and reduce the risk of moisture damage.

Can I perform maintenance on my washing machine myself?
While some basic maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the lint trap and inspecting hoses for leaks, can be done DIY, it’s best to leave more complex repairs to professional plumbers to avoid causing further damage.

How can I conserve water during the summer months?
To conserve water during the summer months, consider installing water-saving fixtures, such as low-flow toilets and showerheads, and practice water-efficient habits, such as watering your lawn early in the morning or evening to minimize evaporation.

By following these summer plumbing tips and staying proactive about maintenance, homeowners can keep their plumbing systems in top condition throughout the summer months. From checking your sump pump to conserving water, a little effort now can go a long way in preventing costly repairs down the road.

Summer is an exciting time for parties, excitement, and play. However, when extra people come into your home for parties and kids are home from school, you may experience increased stress on your plumbing. If any of the above issues arise, be sure to troubleshoot them accordingly and contact Meticulous Plumbing for assistance when needed.