As the temperature rises and summer approaches, many people are looking forward to enjoying outdoor activities and spending time in their yards. It’s crucial not to overlook the maintenance needs of your home, particularly your plumbing system.
Summer can bring its own set of challenges for plumbing, from increased water usage to potential issues with outdoor fixtures. In this guide, we’ll explore essential steps to prepare your plumbing system for the demands of summer, ensuring you can enjoy the season without worrying about unexpected plumbing problems.
Remind Family Members What Shouldn’t Go Down Toilets
Summer means that if you have school-aged children, they’ll be home for the summer. Now’s a good time to remind them what shouldn’t be put down the toilet so you can avoid the need for a bathroom plumber in St. Louis, MO. Items that should never be flushed include baby wipes, facial tissues, paper towels, makeup removers, sanitizing wipes, and feminine hygiene products.
Check Outside Fixtures for Leaks and Drips
One of the first tasks to tackle when preparing your plumbing for summer is to check for leaks and drips. Start by inspecting faucets, fixtures, and visible pipes throughout your home. Check outside faucets for leaks. Look for any signs of water leakage, such as dripping faucets or water stains around fixtures.
Even small leaks can waste a significant amount of water over time and may indicate underlying plumbing issues that need to be addressed. Additionally, inspect your sprinkler system for any malfunctioning heads or leaks that could result in water wastage or uneven watering of your lawn or garden.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Debris from winter such as leaves, branches, and dirt have accumulated in your gutters and downspouts. Before summer showers arrive, make sure to clean out any debris that may have accumulated over the winter months, and ensure that downspouts are clear and directing water away from your home’s foundation. Consider installing gutter guards to help prevent future clogs and make maintenance easier throughout the year.
Test Sump Pump Functionality
If your home is equipped with a sump pump, it’s essential to ensure that it’s in proper working condition before the summer rainy season begins. Test your sump pump and clear any debris from the sump pit that may interfere with the pump’s operation. Contact us if you have any concerns about your sump pump’s functionality.
Consider Professional Inspection
While DIY maintenance tasks are essential for keeping your plumbing system in top condition, it’s also wise to schedule a professional plumbing inspection periodically. One of our qualified plumbers can inspect your system and identify potential issues that may not be immediately apparent.
Preparing your plumbing system for summer may require some time and effort, but the peace of mind it provides is well worth it. By taking proactive steps to check for leaks, clean outdoor fixtures, and test essential components like sump pumps, you can help prevent costly water damage and ensure efficient operation throughout the summer months.
Contact Performance Plumbing today for bathroom plumbing services in St. Louis, MO today!