Summer means more sun, fun, and water. When the heat comes it is inevitable to end up using more and more water. It’s an essential part of life; and even more so when you live in a desert like the Las Vegas Valley. When we start using more water, more opportunities for Summer plumbing problems can arise.
So sit back and relax, because we have some great tips on how to avoid Summertime plumbing woes. This way you can get the most out the nice, warm, sunny days to come, without having to call a plumber in Las Vegas to help you out.
Toilet Clogs
Nobody likes a clogged toilet, for obvious reasons. During the summer, when school-aged children and teens are home, toilets start working double time.
Most clogs occur from too much toilet paper being used.
A simple solution is to have a bathroom etiquette class showing the youngsters and the unruly teenager the proper and maximum amount of toilet paper that should be used for one flush. On average, 6 to 8 squares of toilet paper should be the right amount per use. But, you know, that kids will be kids. So make sure to have a plunger nearby. Check out our DIY video on How to Properly Plunge an Unclog Toilet so that way you are prepared for when an abundance of TP usage, turns into a messy problem.
Another helpful tip is to have a box of flushable and biodegradable baby wipes nearby. These can be used instead of toilet paper and they are just as effective; one flushable baby wipe is much more eco-friendly than mass amounts of toilet paper.
Also, make sure you have a bathroom trash can that is easily accessible for all disposable things that don’t belong in the toilet.
Taking care of the little things will help you avoid bigger issues down the road like a sewer drain clog.
Shower Power
With more people in the house during the Summer, and because of the increasing temperatures, shower usage goes up as the mercury begins to rise.
One of the things people hate most is jumping into the shower only to find there is no hot water. If your hot water heater is 10-years-old or more, you should get it inspected to make sure it’s working efficiently. A whole home plumbing inspection could be just what you need to solve some of your plumbing problems.
Also, remember to flush your water heater! Your standard water heater (or tankless) needs to be flushed at least once-a-year to ensure the longevity of one of your home’s most important appliances. But, don’t worry! Flushing your water heater doesn’t have to be an arduous task.
We have a step-by-step tutorial on how to correctly flush your appliance. If you have a standard water heater, or a tankless, we have videos for both. Check out our DIY Tips & Tricks page for all your home improvement needs.
Before You Leave Town
Summertime means vacation time. Vacations are great, but it’s not so great returning to a plumbing nightmare after a relaxing vacation.
An unaddressed leak can quickly turn into a damaging pool of water in as little as one day.
Excess water left in appliances can turn moldy and quickly accumulate mildew. Before you leave town, check out our vacation plumbing checklist. By following this checklist, you can better enjoy your vacation knowing all is well back home.
Sprinkler Attention
Grasses, flowers, and all varieties of plants are growing in the Summer. Sprinkler systems are working at their max capacity. It’s important to keep an eye on your sprinkler system. Sprinkler heads can break over time which causes water waste and grass die off. Before summer starts do a comprehensive sprinkler system test and avoid water leak problems.
Remember to check back often for more tips and tricks from the premier Las Vegas plumbing company, Pure Plumbing.
