7 Most Common Summer Plumbing Problems

Canadians across the country look forward to the summer months. The last thing you want to have to deal with is plumbing problems as the cold winter freeze starts to unthaw. While most homeowners worry over frozen pipes in the winter, summer too can bring its share of issues with your plumbing.

Warmer weather brings guests and company into your home. This can put an extra strain on your plumbing system. Moreover, our water usage increases during the summer as we pull out the sprinklers and pools to stay cool and water our gardens.

However, if you are prepared and alert, this extra demand on your plumbing system doesn’t have to lead to disaster. Here are the 7 most common plumbing problems in the summer and what to do about them:

Summertime can mean a little extra demand on your plumbing system. Here are the main problems that you should keep your eye on:

1. Flooding in the basement. Although summer is known as the hot season in Canada, there can also be strong storms and rain. These rainstorms can cause flooding in your home, which can be costly to repair. Prepare yourself for the possibility of flooding by ensuring your sump pump is in good condition after the cold winter months. You may also want to install a drain plug for your sewer line to prevent any backup.
2. Sink disposal clogs. With more company stopping by and more food being served, it is inevitable there will be more leftovers in the summer. This extra usage of your kitchen sink disposal can lead to clogs. There are a few ways to prevent this from happening in your home. The first being, be clear about what you can and cannot put down your disposal. Consider collecting food remains in a compost heap to avoid clogs. Avoid dumping oils into your disposal, as they can quickly lead to drainage problems. As well, regularly flush your drains with vinegar and hot water to keep them from smelling bad.
3. Clogged toilets. More company also means more people using your bathroom. This extra usage can lead to clogs and backups. It is a good idea to remind your children and guests about proper bathroom etiquette, such as not flushing too much toilet paper. Also, don’t attempt to flush anything other than toilet paper and organic waste, and always keep a plunger nearby. While this tool can help with most toilet clogs, there may be times that you will need to call in a professional plumber for the job.
4. Sprinkler damage. Before you begin to use your sprinklers to water your yard, it’s important to inspect them for any damage. Repairing your sprinkler elements can help you save money on water and prevent your system from overworking. You should continue to inspect your sprinklers throughout the summer months to ensure they stay in good working condition.
5. Washing machine overload. Summer is a good time to inspect your washing machine hoses for any leaks or damage. If there are any signs that they require repair or replacement, have the work done right away. It can help you avoid any major damage, such as flooding, that will also end up being costly. You can also reduce the size of your loads to avoid any problems that stem from your washing machine’s overuse.
6. Clogged shower. Many people prefer showers in the summertime, which can lead to drains becoming clogged with sand or dirt. To prevent your drains from becoming clogged, you should use outdoor showers at the beach and pools to help you wash clean. It’s also important to check your drain regularly for the buildup of hair and other debris that can block the flow.
7. Outdoor tap leakage. If your outdoor taps are leaking, they can strain your water system and may also damage your foundation. Test all your taps once you turn the water back on to your outside faucets. If you do find one that leaks, call a professional plumber to help you fix the problem.

Prevent Summer Plumbing Problems

Along with keeping your eye on these 7 common plumbing problems that can occur during the summer months, there are some other ways to ensure your system continues to function well during the warmer season. These include:

• Inspection. After winter, it is a good time to inspect the pipes around your home for leaks. Check under your sinks, around your water heater, and the sprinkler system. Examine the tiles around your bathtub for any soft spots or damaged grout. If you find any leaks, it is important to have a professional plumber repair them before they become bigger problems.
• Main water valve. Familiarize yourself with where your main water valve is, just in case you need to turn the water off in an emergency.
• Clear drains. IIt’s important to clean out your drains regularly, so waste doesn’t build up and cause blockages.
• Vacation precautions. If you are away from home for a few days, turn off your water heater to help save you money on your energy bills.
• Replace old appliances. Plumbing elements like showerheads, faucets, or toilet accessories should be replaced if they are getting old or damaged.
• Sewer line inspection. To prevent any unwanted flooding in your home or damage to your plumbing system, have your sewer line inspected by a professional plumber. This can prevent headaches later in the season.
• Water pressure. Any change in your water pressure can be a sign of a leak or other damage to your plumbing system. Keep an eye on your water pressure and call in a professional plumber if it changes.

For more information about preventing summer plumbing problems in your home, call Brothers Plumbing at 1-800-742-0018 or contact us here.