Summer may be relaxing for most of us, but not for our plumbing system. With school out and vacations in, your plumbing system goes through periods of both over- and under-use that add extra strain as the weather gets warmer. That’s why taking precautions now is essential to keep your Grand Rapids home (and your summer fun!) running smoothly all season long.
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Common Plumbing Issues Homeowners Face
Summertime brings unique plumbing problems that other seasons don’t since extreme heat can cause pipe expansion and contraction. With that in mind, let’s begin with a look at common issues you could find yourself up against:
- Outdoor plumbing leaks from sprinkler systems, hoses, etc.
- Washing machine problems
- Sewer line backups
- Clogged drains and toilets
- Low water pressure
- Faucet and pipe leaks
- Water heater rusting or dripping
Preparing Your Plumbing for the Summer
Now that you know the potential plumbing headaches that could derail your summer, it’s time to focus on the easy steps you can take now to avoid them.
Check for Leaks
One of the smartest and simplest actions every homeowner should take at the start of summer is to check for leaks. Winter isn’t the only time you must worry about this issue — loose hoses and connections can cause unexpected flooding. We recommend closely inspecting indoor and outdoor plumbing, including faucets, toilets, under sinks, hose bibbs, sprinkler systems, and washing machines. Bring in an expert for any signs of damage, leaking, rusting, or mold.
Clog Prevention
Do your part now to avoid backups! Flush drains with hot water (or schedule professional drain cleaning), install hair catchers in the shower and deep clean your kitchen garbage disposal. It’s also a good time to remind young children on summer vacation about the proper amount of toilet paper to use and what shouldn’t be flushed.
Water Heater Maintenance
Hot water may not be at the top of your mind when hot temperatures have you sweating, but that’s precisely what makes this time of year ideal for a quick water heater tune-up. Not only can you drain it without the risk of freezing, but you can also inspect it for any leaks or rust that should be addressed before the busy winter season. Bonus tip: Turn down the temperature, especially on vacation, to save money on your energy bill.
Test Your Sump Pump
Prepare for summer storms by confirming that your sump pump works properly. Turn it on, pour a bucket of water into it, and check that the pump is processing the water properly. If so, you can shut it off and remove the water. If not, schedule a sump pump inspection before an unexpected thunderstorm puts you at risk for flooding.
Move That Washing Machine
Sweaty clothes, pool towels, dirty yard work gear, bathing suits — summertime generates a lot of laundry. Ensure your washing machine is up to the task with a close inspection. Pull it away from the wall to view all connections and hoses fully. If you notice bulges or cracks in existing hoses, replace them with new ones to avoid leaks or an all-out washer disaster. When choosing your replacement, remember that stainless steel lasts longer than rubber.
Schedule Plumbing Services With Grapids Home Services Today
If you’re looking for reliable plumbing service this summer, choose Grapids Home Services. We have proudly served West Michigan homeowners for over 25 years, prioritizing personalized service and complete customer satisfaction.
We focus on delivering a superior experience with:
- Same-day repairs and upfront estimates
- Licensed and insured technicians
- Flexible financing options
Contact Grapids Home Services whenever you need a trusted plumbing service in West Michigan.