Summer is the time for sunshine and family fun, but it can also mean more plumbing problems. From toilet clogs to low water pressure, the heat and increased household activity with kids home from school can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system. Watch out for any sign of plumbing trouble to avoid costly repairs. Here’s a look at 8 common summer plumbing problems you may encounter this summer and tips to avoid each one.
Clogged Toilets
School’s out and the summer cookouts have begun. That means your home’s bathrooms are going to be used more frequently by your kids and guests. The added flushes will increase wear and tear on flappers, chains, and handles, which may mean more frequent repairs. Be proactive and inspect your toilet regularly to avoid costly damages.
Having more people at home may increase the risk of toilet clogs. This is especially common in older plumbing systems. Educate your family about what they can and cannot flush, and keep a plunger handy. If a clog is too hard to clear out, you may have a serious blockage or broken pipe due to pressure buildup. Contact your trusted plumber in Manassas to help with all your plumbing repairs.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is one of the most common summer plumbing complaints. The low pressure can be caused by clogs in your pipes, municipal water problems, or faulty fixtures. If you notice your water pressure is low, it’s best to contact a plumber right away. Our certified technicians can diagnose the problem before it becomes a serious issue.
Leaking Faucets
The summer humidity can cause fixtures like faucets to break down due to the metal’s expansion and contraction. This can cause small leaks that may not be immediately noticeable but can worsen over time. If not taken care of early on, the small leaks can turn into larger more costly repairs.
Water Heater Problems
The summer heat can cause stress on you water heater tank, which could lead to the development of cracks. Keep an eye on your water heater for signs of wear and tear and replace if necessary.
Sewer Line Backups
Sewer lines can become clogged during the summer due to increased use or heavy summer rain. When the sewers become overloaded the drains may back up into your home, which could be hazardous to your family’s health. Call our team to help clean your drains and sewers and minimize the risk of backups.
Clogged Disposal
Summer cookouts mean lots of delicious food, but also brings the risk of more material going down the disposal which could lead to big problems. To keep you kitchen sink flowing, avoid putting things like cooking grease, hard food scraps, or stringy foods down the disposal. Run cold water for several seconds before and after using the disposal to clear the drain.
Outdoor Plumbing Problems
Outdoor faucets are used frequently in the summer season. You turn it on and off for car washers, sprinklers, and water your garden. When you go back inside, your faucet is out of sight and out of mind. Which means you may not see the potential leaks. A leaking faucet can waste nearly 90 gallons of water per day, causing your utility bill to skyrocket. Make sure your faucet is sealed tightly and that the rubber washer is in good condition.
Slow Drains
Dirt, debris, and hair are all common culprits that lead to slow draining showers. If your shower is draining slowly, don’t reach for chemical clog removers. They will only mask the bigger issues and increase the wear on your pipes. Call your plumber to snake your drain and get your water flowing smoothly again.
If you experience any summer plumbing problems you can’t solve, don’t hesitate to call the professionals at Parrish Services today at (571) 650-1016 or book online today. https://www.parrishservices.com/contact/