Most people think that freezing weather would be hard on pipes, but several plumbing problems can arise in hot weather. The shifting seasons can impact your home’s plumbing, especially in extreme temperatures. Here are some common issues that the sweltering heat can bring, along with how to identify and prevent them from occurring.
Common Summer Plumbing Issues
With temperatures pre-heating for the hottest part of the year, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for any potential plumbing issues. Consider these common warm-weather woes so you can help protect your home’s system this summer.
Pipe Expansion and Leaks
High temperatures cause pipes to expand. This is particularly problematic for older plumbing systems or metal pipes. Expansion can lead to cracks, leaks, or even burst pipes in plumbing systems that aren’t performing their best.
Routine plumbing inspections are important all year round, but particularly in preparation for major seasonal shifts. Having a professional plumber inspect your home’s pipes before the temperatures soar will help prevent costly repairs down the line.
Sprinkler System Strain
Your sprinkler system will experience greater strain during the summer months as the demand for water increases. With more pressure being put on your system, underground leaks or broken heads can occur. And, with summer being a busy travel season, these problems can happen while you’re away, leading to water loss and elevated utility bills.
Make sure to inspect your sprinkler system (including all its zones) weekly to ensure everything is running smoothly. Look for any sprinkler heads that aren’t spraying evenly or at the set angle and keep an eye on your water meter for any unexplained consumption.
Sewer Line Backups
Hot weather can affect the growth of tree roots by making them grow deeper, faster. These roots can invade sewer lines, leading to breakage or blockages. And with heavy summer rainfall falling on already saturated ground, it creates the perfect storm for sewer backups.
Watch for signs of sewer line issues like foul odors or slow draining sinks, toilets, or bathtubs. Call a professional plumber at the first sign of a sewer backup, as these can become serious quickly.
Clogged Drains and Toilets
Not every struggling drain points to a backed up sewer line. Bathrooms are being used more frequently with kids out of school or guests visiting, and the added usage can equate to clogged drains and toilets. And, with summer travels in full swing, accidental souvenirs in the form of sand, dirt, or debris can slow the flow of showers, tubs, sinks, and washing machines.
To prevent clogged drains, always shake clothing and towels out after a trip to the beach or other debris-laden destination before adding them to the wash, and make sure nothing but the appropriate amount of toilet paper is being flushed down toilets. Clean shower and tub drains after each use to prevent hair and other buildup, and address clogs right away with a plumbing-safe solution (like vinegar and baking soda), plunger, or drain snake.
Water Heater Overload
While not strictly a hot weather issue, water heaters are also used more during the summer months for showers, laundry, and dishes. This uptick in activity can lead to breakdowns or inconsistent water temperatures. Have your water heater inspected at the beginning of the summer to ensure it’s running at full capacity so that it’s ready to handle the seasonal increase.
If you’re due for an upgrade, consider a tankless water heater for hot water on-demand. This space-saving option is lighter on your electric bill and doesn’t experience the sediment buildup that tanks do.
Proactive Steps to Prevent Summer Plumbing Issues
Here are some proactive steps to help your home stay warm-weather ready:
- Schedule a seasonal plumbing inspection to identify any potential problem areas before issues arise.
- Use drain screens and clean them regularly to prevent debris from building up.
- Be mindful of water usage during peak times to reduce the stress on your system.
- Educate family members about proper drain and toilet use and keep plungers or plumbing-friendly clog remedies on hand.
Let Slim Plumbing Help
At Slim Plumbing, we help keep your home running smoothly. From scheduled inspections to emergency plumbing services, we have the experience, skills, and tools to ensure your pipes and appliances are ready for the summer heat. Contact us today to schedule your service and prevent plumbing issues from putting a damper on your summer.