Things You Should Do to Prepare Your Plumbing for the Summer

Is your home’s plumbing system ready for summer? With hotter weather on the way, now’s the perfect time to prepare your pipes and fixtures for the season ahead. Here are five smart plumbing tips to get your home summer-ready—before problems pop up!

Clean Out Your Drains Before You Host Any Parties

Summer gatherings often mean more guests using your home's plumbing, which puts additional strain on your drains. Before guests arrive, it's a good idea to prepare your bathroom and kitchen drains for extra use. This simple step helps prevent slow drainage, clogs, and foul odors that can spoil your party.

• Clear Out Built-Up Debris
  Use a safe drain cleaner to remove accumulated debris from your sink, tub, and shower. This helps keep water flowing smoothly and avoids unwanted backups!
  
  
• Protect Against Root Intrusion
  Warmer weather can facilitate root growth, which can invade your drain pipes. A professional plumber can inspect your system and recommend root-resistant solutions to avoid a costly emergency.
  
  
• Inspect for Hidden Leaks
  Check under the sink and around appliances like the washing machine for any signs of a leak. Early detection helps prevent water damage and costly repairs later.

Consider Draining Your Water Heater

Summer is a good time to flush the tank of your water heater. Sediment buildup in the tank can reduce performance and put unnecessary pressure on the system, leading to higher energy use and wear over time.

• Improve Heating Performance
  Draining the tank clears out mineral deposits that force the system to work harder. This helps maintain stable water temperature and extends the unit’s life.
  
  
• Check for Rust or Corrosion
  While draining, inspect the tank for rust or weakened metal. Corrosion could signal that the valve or the entire unit needs service.
  
  
• Test the Pressure Relief Valve
  The pressure relief valve keeps the system safe from over-pressurization. Test it to make sure it’s working properly and not stuck from mineral buildup.

Check Your Outdoor Water Spigot

An outdoor spigot plays a central role in many backyard activities, from watering flowers to washing down the car with a garden hose. After a cold winter, it can crack or loosen, leading to water loss or a surprise leak that impacts the water supply and utility bill.

• Check for Drips or Leaks
  Attach a garden hose and look for water escaping around the connection. A leaking spigot can waste hundreds of gallons and encourage mold or mildew near the foundation.
  
  
• Test Water Flow and Pressure
  Turn on the tap and evaluate how the water flows. Weak pressure may indicate a blockage or internal damage that needs quick repair.
  
  
• Look for Structural Damage
  Cracks in the pipe leading to the spigot may cause water to seep into your basement. A seasonal inspection helps detect this early.

Examine the Sprinkler System

Your irrigation system supports lawn health during the heat of summer. However, cracked sprinkler heads, misaligned nozzles, or broken valves can waste water and leave dry spots across your lawn.

• Run a Full Cycle Test
  Activate each zone and walk your yard to spot issues like low spray, clogged nozzles, or uneven coverage. Catching problems early promotes water conservation and the health of your landscaping.
  
  
• Inspect for Pipe Leaks
  Underground pipes can shift or crack over time. Some signs of a leak can include soggy patches or inconsistent water pressure across zones.
  
  
• Adjust for Seasonal Weather
  Calibrate timers based on temperature and rainfall. Overwatering not only wastes water but also increases your electricity bill because of unnecessary pump cycles.

Sump Pump Maintenance

As summer storms bring sudden rain and rising groundwater, your sump pump becomes key to protecting the basement from a flood. Routine maintenance prepares the system to handle seasonal changes and potential surges in water volume.

• Test the Float Switch
  Pour water into the sump pit to activate the float. This simple test confirms the pump will respond properly during heavy rain.
  
  
• Clean the Discharge Line
  Debris or blockages in the discharge hose can cause a backup. Clear any obstructions to allow water to exit the sump quickly and safely.
  
  
• Install a Backup Power Source
  A power outage during a storm disables the pump. Consider a battery backup to keep the sump functioning during an emergency.

Get Your Plumbing System in Peak Performance This Summer With 24/7 Plumbing Co.

If you want your plumbing system repiped or inspected by professionals, turn to 24/7 Plumbing Co. We offer plumbing and drain services in Katy, Texas, and are here to help you clean, fix, and maintain the pipes in your home. Give us a call today to learn more and schedule a service for your home.

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