Top 5 Summer Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Summer not only brings sunshine but also warmer weather. During summer, an increase in temperature can create serious plumbing problems like cracked hose bibs, leaking sprinkler heads, and overworked water heaters. Therefore, it is essential to manage these small issues early because if they are left unaddressed, they can turn into costly repairs.

In this summer maintenance guide, we are going to share the top 5 summer plumbing maintenance tips to help you manage the season’s biggest plumbing concerns.

During the colder months, outdoor plumbing fixtures often go unnoticed due to reduced use. However, once summer begins, it is essential to give them proper attention. These fixtures are exposed to the environment year-round. That’s why it’s important to inspect and maintain them during the summer.

Outdoor faucets and hose bibs are some of the most-used outdoor plumbing fixtures. They are used a lot during summer and can get damaged over time. So, before or during summer, inspect them for any issues that need attention. 

Turn them on to check for dripping, uneven water flow, or water leaking around the handle or base. If you notice these signs, there may be an underlying problem. A slow drip sometimes means a part inside is worn out and needs replacement. 

These parts are inexpensive and easy to replace. When you fix leaks early, you prevent bigger problems like water damage or cracks in your home’s foundation. However, if you are unsure about the condition, it’s best to call a plumber for help.

Sprinkler systems help keep your lawn and garden green during summer, but you need to check them regularly to see if they are working properly or not. Turn the system on and watch each sprinkler. Check if they are spraying in the right direction and working as they should. 

If a sprinkler sprays in the wrong direction or does not work, it might be clogged, broken, or have another issue. Leaks are also common. If you see water puddles or notice low water pressure, there could be a leak underground. 

Check each sprinkler head to make sure it’s not blocked by dirt, grass, or leaves. Adjust any misaligned heads so they do not spray sidewalks. This saves water and ensures your plants get the water they need.

Another major plumbing problem you may want to avoid this summer is a sewer backup, which can cause serious and costly damage to your home. During summer, heavy rain and fast-growing tree roots, your sewer system especially vulnerable. 

Fortunately, there are simple and proactive steps you can take to help prevent this and avoid a messy and expensive repair.

Tree roots are a common cause of sewer line problems, especially in summer when trees look for more water. Even tiny cracks in the pipe can let roots in. Once the roots are inside, they grow fast and can block or even break the pipe. To avoid this, get a plumber to check your sewer line, especially if you have big trees nearby or older pipes. 

Watch for early warning signs like slow drains, gurgling sounds, or bad smells. If roots are found, they can usually be cut out or treated with a special solution. If you are facing this problem frequently, you might need to replace the damaged pipes with plastic pipes that roots cannot break.

Along with cleaning tree roots, you can also take simple steps to maintain your home’s drains and prevent sewer backups. Summer is a great time to clean them out, because water usage has increased. To drain, you do not need harsh chemical cleaners because these can damage older pipes over time.

Instead, you can use a natural mix of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water to help keep your drains clear. You can also prevent clogs by avoiding items that can clog a drain, like paper towels, wipes, and grease, as they can block your pipes. Make sure to throw these items in the trash to prevent future plumbing problems.

In addition to outdoor fixtures and plumbing lines, it is also important to keep your water heater in good working condition. Hot summer weather can speed up corrosion and cause sediment buildup over time. Here’s how you can monitor and maintain your water heater during the summer:

Over time, minerals and dirt from your water supply can settle at the bottom of your water heater. This buildup makes your water heater work harder, which can raise your energy bills and give you less hot water. In summer, when you often use more water, the problem can become more noticeable. 

Here’s a step-by-step process on how to flush your water heater:

• Turn off the power to the water heater and allow it to cool.
• Shut off the cold water supply and attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
• Open the drain valve and let the water flow out until it runs clear.
• Turn the cold water on briefly to flush out any leftover sediment, then close the drain valve and remove the hose.
• Turn the water supply and power back on, and let the tank refill and reheat.

If your water heater is showing signs of rust, strange noises, or poor performance, it can be a sign that your water heater is getting old. Check around the bottom and top of the tank for reddish stains or flaking metal. This can mean the inside of the tank is starting to rust, especially if the heater is old or has not been cleaned regularly. 

If you notice rusty or odd-colored hot water from the tank, it usually means there’s a buildup inside that could damage it. Most regular water heaters last about 10 to 15 years. If your heater is close to or above this age and showing problems, it might be better to replace it instead of fixing it.

Low water pressure can delay your routine tasks, while high water pressure can strain and damage your pipes. Therefore, to make sure your plumbing system runs smoothly, you need the right water pressure. Here’s how you can check and manage your indoor water pressure:

Correct water pressure is essential for your plumbing system to function properly. When the pressure is too low, daily tasks like showering, washing dishes, or filling containers take longer and feel frustrating. Low pressure may also indicate hidden issues, such as small leaks, mineral buildup, or older, narrow pipes.

On the other hand, pressure that’s too high can wear out pipes, cause leaks, and shorten the life of your appliances. It can also lead to more water being used than needed, raising your summer water bills. To keep things running smoothly, aim for water pressure between 40 and 80 PSI.

If you think your water pressure is too low or too high, you can test it using a simple pressure gauge. Make sure all other taps and appliances are off before testing for an accurate reading. If your reading is below 40 PSI or above 80 PSI, there may be an issue. Low pressure can indicate problems like leaks, buildup in the pipes, or clogged faucet screens.

On the other hand, high pressure may require checking or installing a pressure-reducing valve (PRV). A PRV helps keep your water pressure within a safe range by lowering the pressure from the main supply. If your home already has one but the pressure is still too high, you can call a plumber to adjust or replace it.

If you are going on vacation this summer, do not forget to inspect your plumbing before you travel. Make sure to check your pipes and fixtures before you leave to prevent problems while you’re away. This way, you can relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about your home.

Here’s how you can protect your plumbing while you are gone.

One of the easiest ways to prevent plumbing problems while you are away is to turn off your home’s main water valve. When no water is running through the pipes, there’s much less chance of leaks or flooding. Simply find the main shutoff valve. To turn it off, slowly turn the handle clockwise until it’s tight. 

Once you have shut it off, open a faucet at the lowest point in your home, like a basement sink or outdoor tap, to let out any leftover water and pressure. When you get back from your trip, turn the valve counterclockwise to turn the water back on, then open a few faucets slowly to let out any trapped air.

Before you head out on vacation, it’s smart to check your home for any other plumbing problems. Look at faucets, pipes under sinks, and the base of toilets, and watch for signs like damp spots, drips, or rust. If you find a small leak, you might be able to fix it by tightening a part or changing a washer. 

But if you see bigger problems, it is best to call a plumber before you leave because even a small leak can turn into serious water damage if left alone. These simple steps are an effective way to protect your home while you are away.

Plumbing issues can escalate quickly if left unchecked. However, regular inspections and simple preventive steps can save you from costly repairs in the future. Take time to check your water pressure, inspect for leaks, and maintain appliances to keep your plumbing in good shape. These efforts reduce the risk of unexpected problems and support the long-term health of your home’s system. 

I Need A Plumber Now is here to help with quick services and expert professionals who know exactly what your home needs to stay functional this summer. 

Call now or book online to schedule your summer plumbing check-up with I Need A Plumber Now and enjoy peace of mind all season long.

It is recommended to flush your water heater once a year. This helps remove sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency and shorten the lifespan of the unit.

The ideal home water pressure during summer ranges from 40 to 80 PSI. Try to maintain it around 60 PSI for best performance.

Tree roots can affect your plumbing by invading underground pipes. Common signs include slow drains, frequent clogs, and foul sewage smell inside and outside of your home.

Using chemical drain cleaners regularly is generally not recommended because frequent use can corrode your pipes, harm the environment, and affect your health.