As temperatures rise, so does water usage in most households. From backyard barbecues to increased laundry loads and outdoor activities, summer puts additional stress on your plumbing system. Many homeowners don’t realize that warmer months bring unique challenges to their pipes, drains, and water-using appliances.
Being aware of summer plumbing problems can help you prevent costly repairs and inconvenient breakdowns. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the most common plumbing issues that arise in the summer and provide practical tips on how to avoid them.
1. Clogged Garbage Disposals
Summer cookouts and family gatherings often lead to an increase in food waste, which can overload your garbage disposal. Items like corn husks, fruit pits, grease, and bones can cause blockages, dull the blades, or even burn out the motor.
How to Avoid It:
- Avoid putting fibrous or hard food scraps down the disposal.
- Never pour grease or oil down the drain, as it solidifies and causes clogs.
- Run cold water for 15-30 seconds before and after using the disposal.
- Regularly clean the disposal with ice cubes and a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
2. Sewer Line Backups
Heavy summer rainstorms can overwhelm municipal sewer systems and increase the risk of sewer line backups. Tree roots also grow aggressively in the summer, seeking moisture and sometimes breaking into sewer pipes.
How to Avoid It:
- Have your sewer lines inspected and cleaned before the rainy season.
- Avoid planting trees or shrubs near sewer lines to prevent root intrusion.
- Install a backwater valve to prevent sewage from backing up into your home.
- Be mindful of what you flush—only toilet paper and waste should go down the toilet.
3. Low Water Pressure
With increased demand on municipal water supplies and potential leaks due to extreme heat, summer can bring lower water pressure. This is especially frustrating when trying to shower, water the lawn, or run multiple appliances at once.
How to Avoid It:
- Check for hidden leaks by monitoring your water bill for unexpected increases.
- Clean faucet aerators and showerheads to remove mineral buildup.
- Contact your water utility provider to inquire about seasonal pressure changes.
- If low pressure is localized to one fixture, it may need replacement or repair.
4. Overworked Water Heaters
Although people associate water heater issues with winter, summer can also strain the system. Increased usage from extra showers, guests, and outdoor activities like washing cars or filling pools can push your water heater to its limit.
How to Avoid It:
- Flush your water heater at the start of summer to remove sediment buildup.
- Lower the thermostat to 120°F to prevent overheating and save energy.
- Insulate exposed pipes to maintain efficiency.
- Schedule professional maintenance to ensure the system is running smoothly.
5. Washing Machine Issues
With kids home from school and more outdoor activities, summer means more laundry. Overloaded washers, kinked hoses, and worn-out machine parts can lead to leaks, poor drainage, or complete breakdowns.
How to Avoid It:
- Avoid overloading the washing machine to reduce strain on the motor.
- Inspect hoses for cracks or bulges and replace them if needed.
- Keep the machine at least four inches away from the wall to prevent hose kinks.
- Clean the lint trap and drain filter regularly.
6. Sprinkler System Leaks
Automatic sprinkler systems are a summer staple for maintaining a lush lawn, but they can develop leaks, clogged heads, or misaligned spray patterns, leading to wasted water and high utility bills.
How to Avoid It:
- Inspect and clean sprinkler heads regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Check for leaks by looking for soggy spots in the yard.
- Adjust spray patterns to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways.
- Set timers to water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
7. Outdoor Faucet and Hose Problems
Winter can cause outdoor faucets and hose bibs to crack, leading to leaks when they’re turned on in summer. Additionally, excessive hose use can cause kinks, bursts, or connections to loosen.
How to Avoid It:
- Check faucets for leaks before using them regularly.
- Replace washers and seals if necessary.
- Store hoses properly by coiling them up to prevent damage.
- Use a hose timer to prevent overuse and accidental flooding.
8. Toilet Clogs and Overuse
With kids home for the summer and guests visiting, toilets get used more frequently, increasing the risk of clogs and overflows.
How to Avoid It:
- Remind household members to use the right amount of toilet paper.
- Keep a plunger nearby for minor clogs.
- Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and waste.
- Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency toilet to reduce water usage.
9. Burst Pipes Due to High Temperatures
Extreme summer heat can cause water pipes to expand and weaken, sometimes leading to bursts—especially if the pipes are already old or corroded.
How to Avoid It:
- Insulate exposed pipes to protect them from heat.
- Check for leaks or signs of pipe wear and replace damaged sections.
- Reduce overall water pressure to minimize pipe stress.
- Schedule regular plumbing inspections to catch issues early.
10. Basement Flooding
Whether from heavy rains or plumbing leaks, summer basement flooding is a major concern for homeowners. A malfunctioning sump pump can make the situation even worse.
How to Avoid It:
- Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and making sure it activates.
- Clean out debris from the sump pump and discharge line.
- Ensure gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the foundation.
- Seal foundation cracks to prevent water from seeping in.
Final Thoughts
Summer is a time to enjoy the warm weather, not deal with frustrating plumbing issues. By being proactive and maintaining your plumbing system, you can avoid common summer plumbing problems before they become costly repairs. Whether it’s checking for leaks, scheduling maintenance, or being mindful of what goes down the drain, these small steps can save you time, money, and headaches.
If you’re experiencing plumbing issues or want to schedule a summer maintenance check, contact a professional plumber to ensure your home is ready for the season. Taking preventative action now can help you enjoy a stress-free summer!
