During the dog days of summer, checking your plumbing might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But the hot weather can increase the risk of hidden leaks in your home thanks to seasonal changes like shifting soil and an increased demand for water. And the longer they go undetected, the more damage and higher water bills you could face. Here’s why you should look for hidden leaks during hot weather.
How Hot Weather Impacts Your Plumbing
Plumbing problems can arise in hot weather. The combination of higher temperatures, increased water usage, and soil changes can put extra stress on your system. This is why summer plumbing inspections are important to stay vigilant against leaks.
Increased Water Usage Strains Your System
During the hottest months, your household demand for water skyrockets. More showers, lawn watering, and pool filling mean more water running through your pipes. All of this extra demand brings the increased potential for leaks to appear. Even a small, unnoticed leak will waste water and cost you more on your already elevated utility bill.
Shifting Soil Can Damage Underground Pipes
When the weather is dry and hot, the soil around your home contracts. If you have buried water lines, this movement can cause cracks or separations in plumbing joints. These types of leaks can go undetected for weeks, sometimes only revealing themselves through soggy patches in the yard or sudden drops in water pressure.
Heat Can Worsen Existing Weak Points
If your plumbing already has a small crack, worn-out seal, or loose connection, the extreme heat can make the problem worse. Thermal expansion (pipes expanding the heat) can also cause fittings to loosen or hairline cracks to spread.
Signs You May Have a Hidden Leak
Even if you can’t see evidence in the form of pooling water, your home may be giving you other clues that there’s a leak in your system:
- Unexplained increases in your water bill
- Drops in water pressure when multiple fixtures are running
- Damp or musty smells, especially near walls or floors
- Discolored spots on ceilings or walls
- Unusually green patches of grass in your yard
Why Catching Leaks Early Matters
If left unchecked, a hidden leak can lead to water damage, mold growth, structural issues, and exorbitant utility bills. Repairing damage from a hidden leak is almost always more expensive than detecting and fixing it early.
Call in the Professionals
The good news? You don’t have to go hunting for leaks alone. A professional plumber uses advanced leak detection technology to find hidden leaks quickly and accurately using non-invasive methods. They’ll know exactly where to look for plumbing issues during the summer months, from yard lines to slab foundations. When you call in a professional, they’ll be able to repair existing issues before they escalate and give you peace of mind heading into the peak of summer water usage.
Protect Your Home This Summer with Slim Plumbing
Hot weather isn’t just tough on you; it’s tough on your plumbing too. At Slim Plumbing, we’ll help you make sure your home stays safe, dry, and efficient all summer long. Don’t wait for signs of water damage before you act. Give us a call today and schedule a professional leak inspection and give yourself peace of mind for the rest of the season.