Summer is a time for outdoor activities, swimming, visits from family and friends, and lots of fun in the sun. Likely, you have a handful of things planned this summer that you and your family will be getting into, but don’t forget to include some relaxation on that list as well! The last thing you want is to have a stressful summer – especially when it comes to your plumbing system. The summer season also can bring a plethora of plumbing problems due to factors like increased water usage and temperature changes. Knowing about these potential problems ahead of time and understanding how to resolve them can make all the difference in allowing for a worry-free summer. So, please join Huber Heights Plumbing & Drain as we discuss the most commonly encountered plumbing problems during summer and offer solutions.
- Leaky Faucets: Let’s talk about those leaky faucets first. If you’ve had a faucet that has been pestering you, but you haven’t quite got around to fixing it yet, now is the time. Leaky faucets can cause water waste and higher bills, especially during warm weather. This can be due to worn-out washers or faulty seals. To solve this particular problem, turn off the water supply to the affected faucet and replace the washer or faucet as needed. Sometimes, all it needs is a quick tightening too! If you’re not sure how to go about this, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional plumber.
- Clogged Drains: During summer, it’s common to have more people at home in the daytime or even have some visitors staying for a time. Perhaps you also enjoy hosting BBQs or parties. Whatever the case, with the increase of people in your home also comes an increase in water usage. (Think about the showers being used more frequently, sinks and toilets too.) To prevent issues in these areas, you can use drain guards to catch debris like hair. Be sure also to avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain. In the rush of hosting a party, etc., it’s still important to only pour drain-safe foods down your sink. On top of that, occasionally pouring hot water and vinegar down the drain to remove unnecessary buildup is something you may want to keep in mind. For difficult clogs, you can use a plunger or plumbing snake to remove the blockage.
- Sprinkler System Problems: To keep your lawn green during the summer, you may need to use sprinkler systems regularly, which is pretty normal. But sometimes, these systems may encounter problems such as broken heads, clogged nozzles, or leaks. To troubleshoot these issues, you should get into the habit of examining your sprinkler system for any visible damage or leaks. Should you find any, replace or clean clogged nozzles as necessary. For significant repairs, it’s suggested to contact an irrigation specialist.
- Sewer Line Backup: If you happen to experience a summer storm or two, it’s good to be mindful that storms can put pressure on your building’s sewage system and even cause blockages. You may notice some warning signs of a sewage system problem, such as strange gurgling noises, unpleasant odors, slower drainage in sinks and toilets, or perhaps water is backing up. You should call a professional plumber right away if you suspect that there is a problem with your sewage system, as they have the appropriate equipment and knowledge to figure out the problem and do repairs if needed.
- Water Heater Troubles: During colder months, hot showers are comforting, but we still need hot water in summer. If your water is lukewarm or not heating at all, there may be an underlying issue with your water heater. The possible culprits could be sediment buildup, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a heating element. Potential solutions include flushing the water heater, adjusting the thermostat, or replacing faulty parts. If the problem continues, please seek professional assistance.
You can prevent potential plumbing issues by familiarizing yourself with common problems and following the suggested solutions. Always prioritize safety, and if you’re unsure of how to do something – no big deal! We are a phone call away and ready to help you as needed.
You can trust Huber Heights Plumbing & Drain to take care of all your plumbing needs so you can enjoy a worry-free summer with confidence, knowing your plumbing system is in good hands. Reach us at (937) 764-3381, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!