When the warmth of summer returns, it’s a time of relaxation, fun and soaking up some sun. However, it’s not the best time of year for your plumbing. Summer plumbing problems are quite common, especially in particularly hot areas such as Las Vegas. Here are some times to prevent your plumbing system from causing you any issues this summer.
Keep an Eye on Buildup from the Washing Machine
Washing machines tend to get a workout during summer. Not only is there usually more laundry to do, but clothes are also commonly caked with grass and mud from hard work or rough play outside. This can easily cause washing machine lines to get clogged and connecting lines to get damaged. Keep loads as light as possible, and if the clothes are particularly dirty consider giving them a quick rinse with a hose outside before putting them in the wash. Regularly check the lines for leaks or cracks, and address problems with the lines as soon as possible.
Turn Down the Water Heater
Once summer hits, your water heater won’t be needed as much. While the dishwasher or washing machine will still need plenty of hot water, you’re more likely to have a cool or mildly warm shower in summer as opposed to a nice hot shower in the winter. The best part is, turning down your water heater will save energy and money.
Think About What You Put in the Garbage Disposal
Summer is a time of barbecues, picnics, cooking over a campfire and enjoying a lot of delicious food with friends and family. However, this results in a higher usage of garbage disposals, and using the disposal for certain foods may cause issues. For instance, corn cobs, celery, potatoes and other thick or stringy foods can get caught up in the blades and even clog the lines.
Check Sewer Lines, Hoses and Any Other Plumbing Lines
Sewer lines can suffer significantly in summer. Rainwater can easily seep into sewer lines through even the smallest cracks, and the pressure from the influx of water can make preexisting cracks even worse. Additionally, roots from trees and sinkholes from rain can cause damage to sewer lines. Standing water or a distinct sewage smell can be an indicator of sewer line problems, but if these symptoms are appearing, the damage is likely already severe. To catch sewer line issues before they get too bad, contact Pure Plumbing for an inspection.
You can also check hoses and any other visible plumbing lines for damage and leaks. Try to keep lines as straight as possible, and keep heavy objects from pressing against them to prevent damage, low water flow and leaks. If any lines look particularly damaged, it’s best to replace the line entirely instead of trying to repair it. Plumbing lines don’t last forever, and knowing when to replace them can save a lot of water, time and money.
