Though we often associate summer with fun in the sun, this season can also wreak havoc on a home’s plumbing. Whether you’re using tons of water to fill that backyard pool or the toilet flushes from your summer guests are straining your system, it’s crucial to make sure your plumbing can take the heat. That’s why it’s so important to prepare your plumbing system for summer.
With a few simple steps, you can ensure that your home is ready for everything from summer storms to swimming to lawn watering.
Read on to learn more.
Check for Leaks
Because our winter temperatures get so cold here in Washington, there’s always a chance that a freeze damaged a home’s plumbing. For this reason, it’s a good idea to check your pipes, faucets, showerheads, drain traps, toilets, and outdoor spigots for leaks.
If you happen to catch one, you can address it early without giving it a chance to wreak havoc on your home or cause spikes in your water bill.
Inspect Your Sprinkler System
If you’re pulling out your lawn sprinklers for the first time since last year, do a thorough inspection of the system.
Sprinklers degrade over time, and even small issues can leak massive amounts of water. Turn your sprinklers on and check the condition of each sprinkler head to be safe. This is also a good time to inspect and replace old water hoses.
Don’t forget to also find the ideal outdoor spot for this system: avoid wasting water by ensuring your sprinklers are covering grass and not the sidewalk.
Check Your Water Pressure
The change of seasons is always a good reminder to cross home maintenance items off your to-do list, and checking your water pressure is an important one.
You can attach a store-bought gauge to a spigot outside of your home for this. Your water pressure should be somewhere between 40 and 60 psi.
Test Your Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump, make sure it’s powered on and pour a bucket of water into it. If your sump pump doesn’t start processing the water, you’ll want to reach out for a repair or replacement before the next seasonal storm.
Schedule Maintenance Services
This is by far one of the most crucial summer plumbing tips to follow. Basic maintenance and professional drain cleaning can help you avoid issues down the line.
Even if you aren’t ready to schedule maintenance services, make sure you have a local plumber on speed dial!
Prepare Your Plumbing System for Summer
Now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to check your plumbing system for summer. With a bit of effort, you can ensure that your pipes and plumbing are ready for anything this season can throw at it.
As you work to improve your home’s plumbing, Olympic Plumbing Technology is here to help. We’re proud to offer our expert services to homeowners throughout Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater, and our experienced technicians are ready to tackle all of your summer plumbing needs.
Contact us today to learn more.
