As summer approaches, ensuring your home’s plumbing system is in top condition to handle increased water usage and potential seasonal issues is essential. Sometimes it’s much more than clearing out a clog with a plumbing snake or consumer product. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your plumbing running smoothly throughout the warmer months.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
When it comes to maintaining your home’s plumbing system, it’s essential to consider having a professional plumber thoroughly inspect it. By bringing in a professional, you can ensure that potential issues are identified before they become major problems. Additionally, expert maintenance provided by a professional plumber can help keep your system running efficiently from repairing a sump pump to clearing out a bad clog with a professional plumbing snake.
Plumbers have the knowledge and experience to spot even the smallest issues that could potentially escalate into larger and more expensive problems down the line. From checking for leaks, to assessing the condition of pipes and fixtures, a comprehensive inspection can provide peace of mind and potentially save you money in the long run.
By scheduling regular inspections and maintenance with a reputable plumber, you can prevent unexpected and costly plumbing disasters, while also prolonging the lifespan of your home’s plumbing system.
Check for Leaks
With increased water usage during summer, existing leaks can worsen quickly. Inspect visible pipes, faucets, and fixtures for signs of leakage. Don’t forget to check outdoor spigots and hoses as well. Even small leaks can waste significant amounts of water and lead to more serious problems if left unaddressed.
Clean and Maintain Gutters and Downspouts
Summer storms can bring heavy rainfall, making proper drainage crucial. Clean out your gutters and downspouts to ensure water can flow freely away from your home’s foundation. This helps prevent water damage and potential basement flooding.
Inspect Your Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump, test it to ensure it’s working correctly. Pour water into the sump pit to activate the pump and observe if it removes the water efficiently. Consider installing a battery backup system if you don’t already have one to protect against power outages during summer storms.
Care for Your Garbage Disposal
Summer often means more food preparation and entertaining. Avoid putting fibrous foods, bones, or grease down the drain to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly. Run cold water while using the disposal and clean it regularly with ice cubes and citrus peels to keep it fresh and odor-free.
Maintain Your Water Heater
Although you may use less hot water in summer, it’s still important to maintain your water heater. Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup, reducing efficiency and shortening the unit’s lifespan. Check the pressure relief valve and inspect for any signs of corrosion or leakage.
Be Mindful of Outdoor Water Use
Increased outdoor water use can strain your plumbing system. Be cautious when using pressure washers or other high-pressure water tools, as they can damage pipes or fixtures if not used properly. Consider installing water-saving devices like rain barrels or drip irrigation systems for more efficient outdoor water use.