As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, summer brings with it the promise of sun-soaked fun and relaxation. However, along with the joys of summer come unique plumbing challenges that can put a damper on your warm-weather festivities. To help you stay ahead of potential problems, we’ve compiled a list of essential summertime plumbing tips that will keep your pipes and fixtures in top shape throughout the season.
- Be Mindful of Your Sprinkler System: Summer is the perfect time to keep your lawn lush and green, but it’s essential to ensure your sprinkler system is operating efficiently. To maintain optimal performance, follow these tips:
- Inspect your sprinkler heads regularly for damage or leaks.
- Ensure your sprinklers are correctly timed to avoid overwatering.
- Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day to minimize evaporation and water waste.
- Prevent Clogged Drains: With increased outdoor activities, summer often means more dirt, sand, and debris finding its way into your home. To prevent clogged drains:
- Install drain strainers in showers and sinks to catch hair, soap scum, and other debris.
- Rinse off outside using a garden hose or outdoor shower before entering your home to minimize the amount of dirt and sand that can clog your drains.
- Keep Your Garbage Disposal Running Smoothly: Summer cookouts and gatherings can put extra strain on your garbage disposal. To maintain its efficiency:
- Avoid disposing of fibrous or hard food waste, such as corn husks, fruit pits, and bones.
- Run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal to help flush waste through the pipes.
- Clean your garbage disposal regularly by grinding ice and lemon peels to remove built-up residue and eliminate odors.
- Check for Leaks: Higher water usage during summer months can put added stress on your plumbing system. Regularly inspect your home for leaks by:
- Monitoring your water bill for any unexplained increases in usage.
- Checking under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances for signs of water damage or mold.
- Inspecting outdoor faucets, hoses, and sprinkler systems for leaks or damage.
- Prepare Your Water Heater: Although hot water demand may decrease during the summer, it’s essential to keep your water heater running efficiently. Follow these steps:
- Adjust the water heater temperature to 120°F to save energy and avoid scalding.
- Flush your water heater to remove sediment buildup, which can reduce efficiency and shorten the unit’s lifespan.
- Inspect the pressure relief valve to ensure it’s functioning correctly and maintaining safe pressure levels.
Conclusion: By following these essential summertime plumbing tips, you can keep your pipes and fixtures in excellent condition and avoid unexpected issues. By being proactive about maintenance and mindful of your water usage, you’ll be able to enjoy a worry-free summer season with more time to soak up the sun and create lasting memories with your loved ones.