Picture this: you’re hosting a backyard barbecue with friends when suddenly, your kitchen sink starts backing up or your shower loses water pressure—not exactly the ideal scenario for an enjoyable summer gathering. By following this checklist, you can prevent unpleasant surprises and keep your plumbing in summer running smoothly throughout the season. From inspecting outdoor faucets for leaks to checking your sump pump for proper functionality in case of heavy rains, taking proactive steps now will save you from potential headaches later on. So let’s dig into this guide to ensure that your plumbing holds up under the scorching heat of summer.
Importance of Summer Plumbing Maintenance
Summer is the season of barbecues, pool parties, and relaxation. But it’s also the time when your plumbing system works its hardest. Heat can put a strain on pipes, causing leaks and clogs. During the summer, you can prevent costly repairs by doing regular maintenance on your plumbing system. Summer is a great time to check for leaks in outdoor faucets and hoses since increased usage can exacerbate any existing problems.
Taking proactive steps now will go a long way to keeping your summer plans on track. Remember, investing time in summer plumbing maintenance now will save you time and money later.
Check Water Pressure and Flow
For a healthy plumbing system, you’ve got to check the pressure and flow. Low water pressure might be a sign of a clog or leak, while high water pressure stresses the system.
- Regularly check faucets, showerheads, and hoses for reduced pressure to ensure optimal water flow.
- You can check water pressure with a pressure gauge attached to an outdoor spigot. This simple tool shows you if the pressure is within the normal range of 40-80 psi.
- If your plumbing in hot weather makes any unusual noises, that could also be an indicator of a problem.
Inspect Outdoor Taps for Leaks
If left unchecked, outdoor taps can waste a lot of water.
- Start by visually examining the tap for any visible signs of leakage such as drips or puddles around the base.
- Turn on the tap and check for strange sounds or fluctuations in water pressure that could indicate a leak. Consider installing a hose bib gauge to monitor water pressure consistently and check for sudden drops that could mean a leak.
- Outdoor faucets should be inspected regularly for leaks to ensure efficient water usage during the summer.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, ruining your roof, foundation, and siding. Cleaning out your gutters regularly will prevent costly repairs and keep your house looking good.
Install gutter guards for efficient gutter maintenance. These devices keep leaves and debris out of gutters while still letting water flow through. Also, check your gutters for leaks or loose sections during the summer so you can fix them before they get worse.
Flush Water Heater
Flush your water heater regularly to prevent sediment buildup that reduces efficiency and costs you money. Sediment accumulation can make your water heater work harder, increasing energy consumption and utility bills. Flushing the water heater ensures it’s running at peak efficiency, which saves you money.
Flushing your water heater improves its efficiency and extends its life. The buildup of sediment can lead to premature failure of the unit. Water heaters need regular maintenance, like flushing, to last longer and avoid unexpected breakdowns during crucial times.
Check Sump Pump Operation
Summer is the perfect time to check your sump pump operation and make sure it’s ready for heavy rain. The first step is to pour water into the sump pit to see if the pump automatically activates and pumps the water out. Checking the sump pump’s power source, such as the battery backup, is also crucial to ensuring its reliability.
Keep Your Plumbing in Top Shape
As we wrap up our guide to summer plumbing maintenance, it’s important to point out the importance of choosing a reliable and competent plumber. Fastfix is a leading provider of plumbing and drainage solutions, serving both domestic and commercial properties across Bristol, Somerset, Gloucestershire, Dorset, Wiltshire, and South Wales.
So whether you’re facing a plumbing emergency or simply seeking proactive maintenance, Fastfix is here for you. Don’t let plumbing issues disrupt your peace of mind this summer—reach out to Fastfix today. Your plumbing deserves the best, and with Fastfix, that’s exactly what you’ll get.