Summer brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and an excellent opportunity to tackle essential home maintenance tasks, especially those related to your plumbing system. Ensuring your plumbing is in top shape not only prevents potential problems but also helps conserve water during this peak usage season. Here are some crucial plumbing maintenance items to focus on during the summer months.
Inspect and Clean Your Gutters
While this might seem like a task for fall, summer storms can also lead to clogged gutters. Blockages can cause water to overflow and damage your home’s foundation or basement. Regularly check your gutters for debris like leaves and bird nests, and clean them out as necessary to ensure proper drainage.
Check for Leaks and Drips
Summer is an ideal time to inspect all faucets and hose bibs for leaks and drips. Even a small drip can waste significant amounts of water over time, impacting your water bill and the environment. Replace worn-out washers and repair any leaks promptly to save water and prevent further damage.
Test Your Sump Pump
If your home has a sump pump, it’s crucial to ensure it is working correctly, especially with the possibility of summer storms. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to trigger the pump and verify it is operating as expected. A functioning sump pump can protect your basement from flooding and water damage.
Maintain Your Water Heater
During summer, your water heater works less hard compared to colder months. This is an excellent time to drain a pan of water from the clean-out valve at the bottom of your water heater tank. This process removes sediment that can build up and decrease efficiency, ensuring your water heater operates smoothly and extends its lifespan.
Service Your Sprinkler System
Summer is the peak time for using your sprinkler system. Check for any leaks, damaged sprinkler heads, and ensure the system is properly aligned to avoid water waste. Schedule a professional inspection if necessary to optimize the system’s performance and water coverage.
Inspect Outdoor Plumbing
Outdoor plumbing, including hoses and spigots, can suffer from wear and tear due to constant use in summer. Check hoses for leaks or cracks and replace them if needed. Ensure that spigots are not leaking when turned off, and consider upgrading to more efficient models if they are outdated.
Clean and Clear Drains
With increased use of sinks and showers during summer, it’s essential to keep your drains clear. Use baking soda or a natural enzyme-based drain cleaner to maintain free-flowing drains. Avoid chemical drain cleaners that can damage pipes and opt for eco-friendly solutions instead.
Complete Our Checklist to Ensure a Stress-Free Summer
By diligently following this summer plumbing maintenance checklist, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure your plumbing system runs efficiently. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your plumbing fixtures but also promotes water conservation, a critical consideration during the hot summer months.
When and if you do need to turn to the experts, let Ensor Plumbing simplify your life. Don’t hesitate to Give Us a Call or use our online form to Schedule an Appointment Today! Remember: If It’s Water, It’s Ensor!