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With summer right around the corner, temperatures are starting to rise in many areas. Each season brings its own concerns when it comes to your plumbing system, and summertime is no different. Prevention is the best defense against plumbing problems, which can save you time, money, stress, and mess. Learn how to protect your plumbing during summer with these tips.
Leak Detection
Ongoing leak detection is one of the most important things when it comes to plumbing maintenance. The longer a leak goes undetected, the more water you will waste. Over the course of year, you could be wasting thousands of gallons of water. This isn’t good for the environment or your pocket book. Plumbing leaks can also lead to water damage and mold. Both of which can lead to expensive repairs. Summertime is a good time to check for leaks, as the kids are home from school so your plumbing may see more usage than it is used to, and warmer temperatures can cause pipes to expand leading pipes to leak or even burst.
Drain Cleaning
Staying on top of your regular drain cleaning can be instrumental in preventing plumbing problems this summer. Again, if the kids are home from school, your plumbing will probably see more action, which can put more stress on your plumbing. Clogged toilets are not uncommon during the summer months, which is why it is a good idea to have your drains cleaned before summer begins.
Prevent Clogged Toilets
Drain cleaning is good to help prevent clogged drains, but it can only do so much. Sometimes there are other factors that lead to clogged drains. It is important to discuss with your friends and family about clog prevention which involves:
- Watching what goes down the drain
- Watching what gets flushed
- Not using too much toilet paper
- Addressing slow drainage at the first signs of trouble
In addition, tree roots can have a huge impact on the functionality of your plumbing system. Roots tend to grow towards moisture, making your plumbing pipes a prime target. Over time, roots can infiltrate your plumbing pipes leading to clogs and backup issues. With the intent of clog prevention, be selective of trees and shrubbery you put in your yard. Slow growing trees will take longer to reach your plumbing pipes. It is also advisable to know where your lateral lines are located, so that you can avoid planting anything near that may prove to be a nuisance.
Water Heater Maintenance
Regular water heater maintenance will help your water heater last longer and also reduce the risk of a mishap. Your water heater should be thoroughly inspected and drained and flushed at least once a year. If you are planning on going on vacation this summer, it is a good idea to check your water heater before you leave to protect your plumbing during summer. Plumbing problems have a tendency of striking when you least expect it, like while you are out of town. You can also turn down or turn off your water heater before going on vacation to reduce your operating costs.
Inspect Pipes For Damage
In areas that are prone to warmer temperatures it is a good idea to inspect plumbing pipes for sun damage. Pipes that are exposed to direct sunlight, can become brittle over prolonged exposure to the sun. It is a good idea to check your exposed pipes for signs of damage and make repairs or replace them before they go out. Pipes that are exposed should be properly insulated to protect them from the elements, as both extreme cold and extreme heat can take their toll on your plumbing pipes.
Water Pressure
Warmer temperatures can also have an impact on your water pressure. As mentioned above warmer temperatures can cause your pipes to leak, which in turn can have an affect on your water pressure. If you are suffering from low water pressure, it is a good idea to have your plumbing inspected.
Get Help With Your Plumbing Maintenance
Staying on top of your plumbing maintenance is the best way to protect your plumbing during summer. Warmer temperatures are right around the corner, now is the best time to schedule your maintenance. In addition to preventing plumbing issues, if you are planning on heading out of town this summer, it is a good idea to make sure your plumbing is in tip top shake before you head out of town. Contact Lesco today to learn more and to schedule your service.
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