3 Tips To Get Plumbing Ready For The Summer

Many people find it a surprise that the relative heat of summer can pose serious problems to a household plumbing system. It is commonly known that winter can and often does, cause serious issues, especially if the temperature is below freezing. Most people are aware of that problem if they live someplace like New England or even further north like Toronto, however, summer can also present a unique set of plumbing issues. Thankfully, these issues can be made much easier with just a little preparation and planning.

This article will discuss three types of common-sense measures that you can use to get prepared and (hopefully) stop these kinds of problems before they start. 

Don’t DIY Your Plumbing

It should be mentioned that there is no substitute for a qualified plumbing professional. Many people feel inclined sometimes to fix a plumbing issue themselves provided that it isn’t too difficult – one little section of burst pipe or a small adjustment of the water flow at the meter isn’t a big deal, but if you run into a real problem, you should always have the number of a good professional plumber, like Mister Plumber on hand.

Stop Mold Before It Starts 

The first thing you should do is clean your Air Conditioner’s drain, or get a plumber to come clean it. Everyone knows that the filter of an air conditioner needs to be changed every few months, but not everyone knows that air conditioners have a drain that also needs to be periodically cleaned. The damp environment of the drain makes it ideal for the growth of mold and bacteria, and if the drain gets clogged up with these things, it can overflow. If you don’t know how to clean the drain, call a plumber or other trained professional, who will be more than qualified to do the job right. Have a certified technician come in and check out your septic tank to prevent leakage or contamination.

Basic Maintenence 

The next thing you will want to do is basic maintenance on the things that will be used more in the summer. Many summer plumbing issues result from human activities that place a greater amount of strain on a plumbing system. Toilets, washing machines, showers and sinks are all likely to be used more often in the summertime. Check around the base of your toilet for any signs of leaking, and if you find any, replace the seal or call a plumber to do it for you. Check the hoses coming from your washing machine for any sign of rot or leakage and replace if necessary. A quick look under your sink can help you identify anything that may need replacing there as well, and you can try using a drain opener such as liquid fire to remove any build-up that may be present. 

Check For Leaks

The final thing to consider is leaking. Start by checking your whole house for any visible leaks. A tiny leak can quickly become a big one when the heavier usage of summertime begins, so if you see even a small drip, action is needed. Many people are surprised to find out that warm temperatures can rupture pipes just as cold temperatures can. One thing to watch out for is tree-roots that can break into your sewer lines; if this happens, it can cause rainwater to flood your sewer lines, causing your toilet to overflow and flood your bathroom. Obviously, if this happens, you have a serious problem and professional assistance is probably needed.

By following this simple guide, you should be able to avoid most of the common plumbing problems that take place in the summer.