Summer brings sunshine, vacations, cookouts – and plumbing problems if you’re not prepared. With more water use during the warmer months (thanks to watering the lawn, extra laundry, and houseguests), it’s the perfect time to make sure your home’s plumbing is ready to handle the load.
Here’s a practical summer plumbing checklist every homeowner should follow to avoid costly surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
Inspect for Leaks. Inside and Out
Start with a simple walk-through of your home and yard. Check under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances for signs of leaks, corrosion, or moisture buildup. Don’t forget to inspect outdoor faucets and pipes, which can develop cracks during the cold-weather months of winter. A slow leak may seem minor, but over time it can waste gallons of water and cause hidden damage.
Check Your Water Heater
Summer is the perfect time to give your water heater some attention. Drain a few gallons from the tank to flush out sediment buildup, which can reduce efficiency and lead to corrosion. If your unit is over 10 years old or showing signs of rust, strange noises, or inconsistent temperatures, it might be time for a professional inspection – or even a replacement.
Test Your Sump Pump
Summer storms can bring heavy rainfall. Make sure your sump pump is ready by testing it: pour a bucket of water into the pit and confirm it kicks on and drains properly. If you have a battery backup system, test that, too. A working sump pump can prevent costly basement flooding during a sudden downpour.
Clear Your Drains
With summer comes more cooking, more guests, and more strain on your drains. To prevent slow drains or clogs, use a safe, non-corrosive drain cleaner or flush them with a mix of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water. Avoid dumping grease or food scraps down the kitchen sink, even with a garbage disposal.
Inspect Your Toilet
A silent toilet leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water a month. An easy way to check is with a few drops of food coloring in the tank. Wait 15–20 minutes without flushing. If color appears in the bowl, you’ve got a leak. Often, it’s a worn flapper or faulty valve—both simple, inexpensive fixes. Regular checks can help you save water, lower your utility bills, and prevent bigger plumbing issues down the road.
Plan for Vacation Time
Going away for more than a few days? Turn off the main water supply to avoid any plumbing disasters while you’re gone. You can also shut off your water heater to save energy. If possible, have a neighbor or friend stop by to check on things while you’re away.
Stay Ahead of Summer Plumbing Issues
A little proactive plumbing maintenance can go a long way toward preventing messy, expensive problems. If you spot something that doesn’t look right, contact Norhio Plumbing for great service and your satisfaction guaranteed.
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