5 Common Summer Plumbing Issues for Homeowners
Plumbing problems aren’t usually the first thing to come to mind when thinking of potential household problems in the summer. Nevertheless, the warmer months are a prime time for plumbing problems that may not occur at other times of the year.
Clogged Disposal
Summertime calls for cookouts and guests running around your house. So obviously, your garbage disposal will be getting a lot of use. Food items are generally not good for your in-sink garbage disposal especially if you are disposing of fruit and vegetables. Hard fruits and vegetables can damage the blade at your disposal or lead to stubborn clogs. Also, the use of cooking oils can be damaging to your garbage disposal systems. If your disposal does start to develop a clog, flush it with boiling water. Another maintenance tip is running cold water through your disposal before and after use to clear any remaining food bits.
Sewer Line Backups
Rain showers and thunderstorms are common in the summertime. Excessive rain can get into sewer pipes through cracks and cause the sewer line to back up. Trouble may also occur when tree roots spread underground and crack the pipes. Servicing your sewers before the summer comes can help you avoid the worst of the problems while installing a drain plug in each drain can prevent water from backing up during storms. If there are any signs of sewer line trouble, call a plumber right away.
Washing Machine Issues
During the summer your washing machine may get more use due to children being out of school and spending days at the pool or beach. Additional stress is put on your washing machine when there is more laundry to wash. When the machine is running it is recommended to stay home so if a problem arises you can stop the cycle immediately and call a professional if needed. To prevent a flood in your house, check the hoses at the back of the machine for any possible leaks. Another solution is moving your washing machine out from the wall to prevent the hose from kinking.
Clogged Toilets
Household toilets are also used more regularly in the summer due to children being home during the day. Teach your kids to use a modest amount of toilet paper and to flush only after they actually use the bathroom. Clogs are normally fairly simple to clear with a plunger, but if additional help is needed, call a professional.
Sprinkler Issues
Summer means fresh, green grass, blooming flowerbeds, and a well-manicured lawn and landscaping for your home. If your household has sprinklers embedded in your lawn, be sure to inspect and clean the heads before the season begins. By doing this it can give your sprinklers a much longer lifespan and save you money. When you are mowing the lawn, be careful to do so when the sprinkler heads are lowered, in order to avoid damaging them.
With an aspect of your home as important as plumbing to your comfort, we’re dedicated to being your plumbing solution to any problem. For all your plumbing needs, contact us today at 317-283-9597.
