Summertime is all about backyard barbecues, family vacations, and enjoying the outdoors, not dealing with leaky faucets or flooded basements. With more people at home and increased water usage, your plumbing system works harder in the summer than at any other time of year.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of expert summer plumbing tips to help you avoid emergencies, save money, and make the most of your summer.
Check for Leaks Indoors and Out
During the summer, your plumbing system is put to the test, making it vulnerable to leaks. Watching out for leaks can help you prevent larger issues later on. Be sure to …
- Look under sinks and around faucets for signs of moisture or corrosion.
- Check the base of your toilets and behind the fridge.
- Test outdoor spigots and sprinkler heads for leaks or drips.
- Inspect your water heater for rust or small puddles.
By staying proactive with leak detection, you’re less likely to deal with plumbing emergencies when you should be relaxing and enjoying the weather.
Test Your Water Pressure
The summer comes with an increased demand for water in most households. Your water pressure can fluctuate during these periods of increased demand. Keeping your water pressure in the optimal range will ensure your appliances run efficiently and your pipes remain safe.
To check your water pressure, you can use a water pressure gauge on an outdoor spigot. The ideal home water pressure is between 40 and 60 psi. If the pressure is too low or too high, it could lead to plumbing issues.
Inspect Your Lawn Care System
Make it a habit to inspect your lawn care system early in the summer. Clean and realign sprinkler heads if necessary. If any sprinkler heads are cracked or malfunctioning, consider replacing them. You can also consider a rain sensor to avoid unnecessary watering. Maintaining your lawn care system will help you conserve water and prevent long-term damage to your yard or home exterior.
Get Your Water Heater Ready for Summer Travel
A properly maintained water heater lasts longer and helps you save on energy bills. To maintain your water heater, flush a few gallons of water through it to remove sediment buildup. You should also check for rust, corrosion, or strange noises that might signal it’s time for service.
Many water heaters have a “vacation mode” that helps you conserve energy while you are away. Adjusting your water heater for summer needs helps you reduce energy bills while staying ready for busy days and guests.
Prevent Drain and Garbage Disposal Clogs
Summer often means more foot traffic in the kitchen and bathroom, which increases the risk of clogs and backups. Staying mindful about what goes down your drains can save you from a mid-party plumbing emergency. Here are a few tips for preventing drain and garbage disposal clogs:
- Keep grease, bones, melon rinds, and corn husks out of your garbage disposal.
- Run cold water before and after using the disposal.
- Use sink strainers to catch hair and debris in bathrooms.
- Teach young kids proper toilet use and remind them not to flush wipes or toys.
These small habits will keep your drains clean and your plumbing system running smoothly through the summer’s busiest days.
Check Your Washing Machine Hoses
Between sweaty clothes, muddy towels, and guests staying over, summer creates a surge in laundry. Make sure your washer can handle the extra workload by inspecting hoses for cracks, bulges, and leaks. You might also want to replace old rubber hoses with more durable stainless steel versions. Avoiding a hose burst or slow leak will save you from water damage and keep your laundry routine running uninterrupted.
Test Your Sump Pump Before the Storms Hit
Summer storms are unpredictable, but your sump pump shouldn’t be. A simple test could save you thousands in flood-related repairs. Try pouring a bucket of water into your sump pit to make sure your sump pump activates. This is also a good time to make sure your sump pump’s discharge line is clear and pointed away from your home’s foundation. Testing your pump now ensures it’s ready when the next thunderstorm rolls in.
Locate and Test Your Main Shutoff Valve
Despite our best efforts, plumbing emergencies still happen. When an emergency strikes, knowing how to turn off your home’s water supply can save you from major repairs and stress. You should locate your main shutoff valve in the basement, crawl space, garage, or yard. Turn it off, then test a faucet to confirm it’s working properly.
Save Water (and Money) With These Easy Wins
Water conservation doesn’t require major plumbing upgrades. These simple behavioral changes can add up to big savings during the hottest months of the year:
- Fix leaky faucets and running toilets.
- Water your lawn early in the morning or late evening.
- Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving.
- Upgrade to WaterSense fixtures when possible.
These quick adjustments protect the environment (and your wallet).
Need a Hand This Summer? Call Arnold & Sons Plumbing
Need help understanding these plumbing tips for summer? Maybe you want to schedule a summer plumbing inspection? Call us, and we will help you. Peoria residents love us for the following reasons and more
- 24-hour scheduling
- All employees are screened & background checked
- Backed by our A.R.N.O.L.D. values: Appreciation, Responsibility, Nurture, Optimism, Leadership, Dedication
Click here to learn more about our plumbing services.
