Summer in Australia brings not only warmer weather but also an increased strain on household plumbing systems.
From garden hoses to water heaters, the elevated use of water during the hotter months can lead to unexpected plumbing issues if maintenance is neglected. By addressing potential problems early, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure everything runs smoothly throughout the season.
Regular summer plumbing maintenance is essential for keeping your home’s water systems efficient and reliable. Simple checks and preventative measures can go a long way in avoiding breakdowns, saving water, and reducing your overall utility bills during the busy summer months. In this article, written with help from the experts at Cyber Plumbers, we will dive into 7 common ways you can help maintain your plumbing this summer.
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1 – Check for Leaks in Outdoor Hoses and Faucets
With outdoor hoses and faucets being heavily used during the summer months, it’s essential to inspect them regularly for leaks. Even a small drip can result in significant water loss over time, driving up your water bill and wasting a valuable resource. Check hoses for any cracks or splits and ensure the connection to the faucet is secure. A loose or damaged washer could also be the culprit behind leaks.
Beyond water wastage, a leaking faucet can cause pooling, leading to potential damage to your home’s foundation or outdoor surfaces. If you notice any signs of leaking, like damp patches or visible drips, address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and unnecessary water usage.
2 – Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downpipes
Summer storms and high winds can cause debris like leaves and twigs to accumulate in your gutters and downpipes. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which may damage your roof, walls, or even the foundation of your home. Regularly inspecting and cleaning these areas will ensure proper water flow and prevent potential structural damage caused by trapped water.
Blockages in downpipes can also cause issues with drainage around your home, leading to water pooling near the foundation, which can weaken it over time. To avoid costly repairs, check for visible blockages and clean out any debris. Keeping your gutters and downpipes clear is an important preventative step in summer plumbing maintenance.
3 – Maintain Your Water Heater
After heavy use during the colder months, summer is the perfect time to give your water heater some attention. Inspect your unit for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, leaks, or unusual noises. Inconsistent water temperature can also indicate underlying issues. Regular maintenance helps ensure your water heater operates efficiently and prolongs its lifespan.
One essential maintenance task is draining the tank to remove sediment build-up. Over time, sediment can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and potentially causing damage. By flushing out the system, you’ll help improve its performance and reduce the risk of breakdowns, ensuring your water heater remains reliable through the summer months and beyond.
4 – Examine Sewer Lines for Blockages
Summer can be a particularly risky time for sewer line blockages, especially with increased water usage from showers, dishwashers, and outdoor activities. Additionally, tree roots tend to grow more aggressively in warmer weather, seeking out moisture in underground pipes. This can lead to serious blockages, causing slow drains, foul odours, or even sewage backups in your home.
To prevent costly repairs, it’s important to keep an eye out for warning signs like gurgling sounds from drains, slow drainage, or unpleasant smells. Regular inspections can help catch small issues before they escalate. If you suspect a problem, calling a professional to assess your sewer lines can save you from a major plumbing emergency later in the summer months.
5 – Inspect Sprinkler Systems
Summer is the peak time for using sprinkler systems to keep lawns and gardens healthy, but it’s crucial to inspect them for leaks or damage. A broken sprinkler head can waste a lot of water, leaving your garden under-watered and your water bills unnecessarily high. Walk through your garden to check if each sprinkler head is functioning correctly, and look for any visible signs of wear or damage.
It’s also important to ensure that your sprinkler system’s water pressure is properly adjusted. Too much pressure can damage your system, while too little pressure may not water your garden evenly. Regular checks and adjustments to your sprinkler system will ensure it runs efficiently and help conserve water during the hot summer months.
6 – Address Slow Drains
During summer, increased outdoor activity can lead to more debris like sand, dirt, or hair entering your home’s drains, causing them to slow down. If you notice water taking longer to drain from sinks, showers, or bathtubs, it’s important to address the issue before it turns into a full blockage. Slow drains can also be a sign of deeper plumbing problems, such as build-up in your pipes or issues with your sewer line.
Regularly clearing out any debris from sink strainers and keeping an eye on your drains’ performance can prevent small problems from escalating. If the issue persists despite your efforts, it’s a good idea to have a professional inspect the drains to rule out any significant underlying causes.
7 – Inspect Toilet Valves and Flappers
Toilets are used frequently throughout the year, and worn-out valves and flappers can waste a significant amount of water, especially during the summer months when water usage is high. A faulty flapper can allow water to leak continuously from the tank into the bowl, leading to higher water bills. Take a few minutes to inspect the flapper and valve to ensure they are functioning correctly.
If you notice your toilet running constantly or making unusual sounds, it may be time to replace these components. Flappers are affordable and easy to replace, making them a simple fix that can save water and prevent unnecessary waste. Addressing minor issues early will help maintain your toilet’s efficiency and avoid future complications.
Keep Your Plumbing Running This Summer!
Regular summer plumbing maintenance is essential for keeping your home’s plumbing system in good working order during the busiest season for water usage. By following these simple tips, you can catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs, ensuring your plumbing remains efficient and reliable throughout the hotter months.
Taking a proactive approach to plumbing care not only conserves water but also helps reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Whether it’s checking for leaks, inspecting your water heater, or keeping drains clear, these small steps will go a long way in maintaining a smoothly running home.
This article was made in partnership with Cyber Plumbers
