Common Summer Plumbing Problems and How to Prevent Them
Summer is a time for barbecues, vacations, and long days enjoying the sunshine. However, the season can also bring a unique set of plumbing issues that can quickly disrupt your summer fun. Increased household water usage, extreme temperatures, and outdoor activities can put a strain on your plumbing system if you're not prepared. By understanding the most common summer plumbing problems and learning how to prevent them, you can save yourself time, money, and headaches.
Let’s dive into the most frequent summer plumbing issues homeowners face and practical tips to keep your plumbing in top shape all season long.
1. Clogged Garbage Disposals
Why It Happens in Summer
During the summer, many families cook more frequently at home and host backyard barbecues. Food scraps like corn husks, watermelon rinds, and greasy leftovers often end up in the garbage disposal, even though these items are hard for the disposal to handle. Over time, this can cause serious clogs or damage the blades.
How to Prevent It
- Avoid putting fibrous, starchy, or greasy foods down the disposal.
- Run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal to flush debris.
- Consider composting food scraps that aren’t disposal-friendly.
If you notice slow drainage or strange noises, it’s time to call a professional plumber like Advanced Heat, AC & Plumbing to inspect your system.
2. Sewer Line Backups
Why It Happens in Summer
Heavy summer rains can saturate the ground, putting pressure on your sewer lines. Tree roots also become more active in their search for moisture, sometimes infiltrating and blocking sewer lines. This can lead to backups into your home, creating unsanitary and expensive problems.
How to Prevent It
- Schedule regular sewer line inspections, especially if you have mature trees near your sewer system.
- Install a backflow prevention valve to stop sewage from entering your home during heavy rains.
- Never flush anything other than toilet paper to reduce the chance of clogs.
3. Sprinkler System Leaks
Why It Happens in Summer
Summer is prime time for lawn care and outdoor irrigation. Sprinkler heads are often damaged by lawn equipment, foot traffic, or simply by age. Leaks can result in wasted water, higher utility bills, and damage to your landscaping.
How to Prevent It
- Inspect your sprinkler system regularly for broken heads or pooling water.
- Adjust the sprinkler heads to ensure they are properly positioned and not overwatering certain areas.
- Schedule professional maintenance to ensure the system is running efficiently.
4. Washing Machine Overload
Why It Happens in Summer
With kids home from school, summer vacations, and pool days, your washing machine likely works overtime in the summer months. The extra strain can lead to worn-out hoses, leaks, or even flooding.
How to Prevent It
- Check hoses for bulges, cracks, or leaks and replace them every 3-5 years.
- Avoid overloading the washing machine with too many towels or heavy items.
- Keep at least four inches of clearance between the washing machine and the wall to prevent hose kinks.
5. Low Water Pressure
Why It Happens in Summer
High summer water demand, municipal water supply limitations, or unnoticed leaks can result in reduced water pressure throughout your home.
How to Prevent It
- Check for hidden leaks in outdoor spigots, irrigation systems, or under sinks.
- Clean faucet aerators and showerheads to remove mineral buildup.
- If the problem persists, contact Advanced Heat, AC & Plumbing to inspect your main water line and assess your pressure regulator.
6. Outdoor Faucet Leaks
Why It Happens in Summer
Outdoor faucets (also called hose bibs) may have been damaged over the winter and gone unnoticed until summer when you begin to use them again. A leaky outdoor faucet can waste significant amounts of water and lead to hidden water damage.
How to Prevent It
- Inspect all outdoor faucets for leaks or drips at the start of the season.
- Use a hose bib cover in the winter to prevent freezing damage.
- Replace worn-out washers or call a plumber if the leak persists.
7. Toilet Problems
Why It Happens in Summer
With guests visiting and kids at home, toilets see more frequent use, increasing the chance of clogs or running toilets.
How to Prevent It
- Teach family members what should and shouldn't be flushed.
- Keep a plunger on hand for minor clogs.
- Schedule a professional inspection if your toilet frequently runs or clogs to ensure there’s no deeper issue.
8. Slow or Clogged Drains
Why It Happens in Summer
Increased summer activity often means more hair, soap, and debris finding their way into your drains. Outdoor activities can also track dirt and sand into showers and sinks, contributing to slow drainage.
How to Prevent It
- Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris.
- Avoid pouring grease or oils down the drain.
- Flush your drains regularly with hot water and baking soda or use safe enzymatic drain cleaners.
For severe clogs, reach out to Advanced Heat, AC & Plumbing for professional drain cleaning services.
9. Water Heater Strain
Why It Happens in Summer
Even though the demand for hot water may decrease slightly in summer, large families or frequent house guests can still put pressure on your water heater. Sediment buildup from hard water can also cause inefficiency or premature wear.
How to Prevent It
- Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment.
- Inspect for signs of rust or leaks.
- Consider upgrading to a tankless water heater for more energy efficiency and endless hot water.
10. Increased Risk of Pipe Damage
Why It Happens in Summer
Warmer temperatures can cause pipes to expand and contract, especially if they are already aging or made from less durable materials. Construction work, digging in the yard, or tree root intrusion can also damage pipes in the summer.
How to Prevent It
- Always call 811 before digging to avoid damaging buried water lines.
- Schedule regular plumbing inspections to identify weakened pipes.
- Replace older pipes with more durable materials like PEX or copper.
Final Thoughts
Summer can be a stressful time for your plumbing system, especially if you don’t take proactive steps to prevent common issues. Clogged drains, sewer line backups, sprinkler leaks, and outdoor faucet problems are all avoidable with proper maintenance and awareness.
By scheduling routine plumbing inspections and adopting smart plumbing habits, you can enjoy your summer without the inconvenience of unexpected plumbing disasters. Partnering with a trusted local expert like Advanced Heat, AC & Plumbing ensures that any summer plumbing problem can be addressed quickly and professionally.
Contact Advanced Heat, AC & Plumbing today to schedule your summer plumbing checkup and keep your home running smoothly all season long.
