Summer is a great time for outdoor activities, family vacations, and enjoying the warm weather. However, it is also a time when your plumbing system can experience common issues such as leaks or clogs. These issues can cause inconvenience and lead to costly repairs if left unattended. Here are some tips on preparing your plumbing system for summer and avoiding common issues.
Inspect and Clean Your Gutters
Summer is the season of heavy rains and thunderstorms. If your gutters are clogged with leaves, debris, or other materials, they can cause water damage to your roof and foundation. Additionally, clogged gutters can lead to water backup and leaks in your plumbing system. Before the summer season starts, inspecting and cleaning your gutters is essential. You can do this yourself or hire a professional to do it for you. Remove all the debris from the gutters, downspouts, and drains to ensure proper water flow.
Check Your Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
During summer, outdoor faucets and hoses are used more frequently for activities like watering plants, washing cars, or filling up kiddie pools. However, outdoor plumbing fixtures are vulnerable to damage caused by freezing temperatures during winter. It is important to check your outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks, cracks, or other damage that may have occurred during the winter season. Turn on the outdoor faucet and check for leaks or drips. Also, inspect the hose for cracks or splits that may cause leaks. If you find any damage, replace the hose or faucet immediately.
Maintain Your Sump Pump
Heavy rainfall during summer can cause water damage to your basement or crawlspace. A sump pump can help prevent water damage by pumping the excess water out of the house. However, a malfunctioning sump pump can cause flooding and water damage. Before the summer season starts, inspect and maintain your sump pump. Check for any clogs or debris that may obstruct the mechanism. Also, test the pump by pouring water into the sump pit and ensuring it pumps it properly.
Inspect Your Water Heater
During summer, your water heater may not be used as frequently as during the winter season. However, inspecting and maintaining your water heater is still important to ensure it functions properly. Sediment and mineral deposits can accumulate inside the water heater tank, reducing efficiency and shortening the unit’s lifespan. Before summer, drain your water heater tank to remove any sediment buildup. You can do this yourself or hire a professional plumber to do it for you. Additionally, check the temperature and pressure relief valve to ensure it works properly.
Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain
Summer is the season of BBQs and grilling. However, pouring grease down the drain can cause clogs and damage your plumbing system. Grease can solidify and stick to the inside of your pipes, causing blockages and backups. Instead of pouring grease down the drain, collect it in a container and dispose of it in the trash. Additionally, avoid putting any other food scraps or leftovers down the drain, as they can cause clogs and damage your plumbing system.
Visit Us at A Better Plumber
In conclusion, preparing your plumbing system for summer can help you avoid common issues like leaks or clogs. By inspecting and maintaining your gutters, outdoor faucets, sump pump, and water heater as well as avoiding pouring grease down the drain, you can ensure your plumbing system functions properly during the warm season. If you encounter any plumbing issues at your home in Waldorf, contact us at A Better Plumber for excellent plumbing services, such as leak detection.
