Sunny Days, Safe Drains: Essential Summer Plumbing Safety Tips
Summer is in full swing and while the warm weather calls for outdoor fun, it also brings unique challenges for your home’s plumbing system. From increased water usage to storm season preparations, a little proactive maintenance now can save you from a soggy headache later. As of early July 2025, with peak summer just beginning, it’s the perfect time to ensure your plumbing is ready for the demands of the season.
Here are some essential summer plumbing safety tips to keep your pipes flowing smoothly and your home protected:
1. Watch What Goes Down the Drain
Summer often means more grilling, outdoor entertaining, and perhaps even DIY projects. Be extra mindful of what gets flushed or rinsed:
- Grease and Food Scraps: After a BBQ, resist the urge to pour cooking grease down the drain. It solidifies and causes stubborn clogs. Scrape plates into the trash.
- “Flushable” Wipes: Even if they say “flushable,” these wipes don’t break down like toilet paper and are a major culprit for sewer line blockages, especially during periods of increased use.
- Dirt and Debris: If you’re washing off gardening tools or muddy shoes, do it outside or into a utility sink where dirt can be easily collected and disposed of, rather than clogging your indoor drains.
2. Be Mindful of Outdoor Hoses and Spigots
Your outdoor plumbing gets a workout in the summer.
- Check for Leaks: Inspect hoses, sprinklers, and outdoor spigots for drips or leaks. Even small leaks can waste significant amounts of water and drive up your utility bill.
- Proper Connection: Ensure hoses are securely connected to prevent unnecessary spraying and water loss.
- Avoid Kinks: Don’t leave hoses kinked or under heavy objects, as this can weaken them and lead to bursts.
- Before Winter Prep (Looking Ahead): While it’s summer now, remember that when temperatures eventually drop, you’ll need to disconnect and drain hoses and protect outdoor spigots to prevent freezing and bursting.
3. Sump Pump Check-Up (If Applicable)
For homes with basements or in areas prone to heavy summer thunderstorms, your sump pump is a critical defense against flooding.
- Test It: Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates, drains the water, and then shuts off properly.
- Clear Debris: Make sure the pit is clear of any debris that could obstruct the float switch or pump operation.
4. Inspect Your Sprinkler System
An efficient sprinkler system is key to a healthy lawn without wasteful watering.
- Look for Leaks: Walk your property while the sprinklers are running and check for broken sprinkler heads, geysers, or areas that are unusually wet, indicating a leak.
- Adjust Heads: Ensure sprinkler heads are spraying water only on your lawn and plants, not on sidewalks, driveways, or your house, which can lead to unnecessary water use and potential foundation issues over time.
- Timer Settings: Adjust your watering schedule for summer, typically early mornings to minimize evaporation.
5. Check for Leaks Indoors
Increased water usage during summer can expose minor leaks that might go unnoticed during other seasons.
- Toilets: Add a few drops of food coloring to your toilet tank. If the color appears in the bowl without flushing after 15-20 minutes, you have a silent leak.
- Faucets: Listen for drips and visually inspect all faucets. Even a slow drip adds up.
- Under Sinks: Periodically check under sinks for any signs of moisture or water stains.
6. Be Prepared for Storms
While Southern California enjoys beautiful weather, summer can occasionally bring pop-up storms.
- Clear Gutters and Drains: Ensure your gutters are free of leaves and debris so rainwater can flow freely away from your home’s foundation. Clear any exterior drains or catch basins.
- Emergency Contact: Have the number of a reliable plumber handy in case of a sudden pipe burst or major backup.
By taking a little time this summer to address these plumbing safety tips, you can enjoy the beautiful weather of Southern California with confidence, knowing your home’s essential systems are well-maintained and ready for anything. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Mr. Rooter Plumbing, Orange County, your trusted plumbing professionals, 949.371.2025