As temperatures rise and summer settles in, homeowners shift their focus to outdoor activities, family vacations, and cooling down from the heat. But while summer brings plenty of sunshine, it can also bring unexpected plumbing challenges. Warm weather can put additional stress on your home’s plumbing system – from increased water usage to temperature-related issues.
That’s why scheduling summer plumbing maintenance in Chestermere, AB is essential for preventing costly surprises and keeping your home running smoothly during the hottest months of the year. Here are some of the most common plumbing problems that occur during summer – and how you can prevent them with proactive maintenance.
1. Clogged Garbage Disposals
Summer means backyard barbecues, cookouts, and more frequent meal preparation – especially with fresh produce, corn on the cob, and greasy leftovers. These seasonal foods can wreak havoc on your garbage disposal if not handled properly. Corn husks, melon rinds, and grease can clog your drain or damage the disposal blades.
Prevention Tip: Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods down the disposal. Run cold water while using it, and schedule regular cleanings or inspections as part of your summer plumbing maintenance routine.
2. Overloaded Washing Machines
With kids out of school, pool days in full swing, and visitors staying over, your washing machine sees much more use during the summer. Extra loads of towels, swimsuits, and clothes can put a strain on your washer hoses and plumbing connections – leading to leaks or backups if not properly maintained.
Prevention Tip: Check washing machine hoses for cracks or bulges and make sure connections are tight. Consider upgrading to stainless steel braided hoses and spreading out laundry loads to avoid overuse.
3. Sprinkler and Outdoor Faucet Leaks
Your outdoor plumbing gets a workout in the summer, too. Sprinkler systems and hose bibs may leak due to damage from the previous winter or wear and tear from regular use. Even small leaks can waste significant water and affect water pressure inside the home.
Prevention Tip: Inspect your sprinkler system for broken heads and test outdoor faucets for leaks. A professional plumber can help detect underground issues and ensure everything is working efficiently.
4. Sewer Line Backups
Heavy rainstorms, which are common during Alberta summers, can saturate the ground and overwhelm your home’s sewer line. This can lead to slow drains, foul odors, or even raw sewage backing up into your home – a nightmare scenario for any homeowner.
Prevention Tip: Have your sewer line inspected for blockages or tree root intrusions. Scheduling summer plumbing maintenance gives professionals a chance to clear any clogs before they turn into emergencies.
5. Water Heater Issues
You might associate water heater problems with winter, but summer is also a high-demand time – especially if you have house guests. Mineral buildup in the tank, combined with increased use, can reduce efficiency or lead to poor hot water supply.
Prevention Tip: Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment and extend its life. A professional plumber can inspect and maintain the unit as part of a seasonal maintenance service.
Protect Your Home with Seasonal Maintenance
Your plumbing system works hard all summer long, even if it’s mostly out of sight. By recognizing common seasonal issues and taking preventative steps, you can avoid inconvenient breakdowns and expensive repairs. Regular summer plumbing maintenance is a simple and effective way to ensure your home stays comfortable, efficient, and worry-free all season long.
Contact Ace Plumbing and Heating today to schedule an appointment for your plumbing and HVAC needs. Happy Today or You Don’t Pay!