4 Summer Tips to Protect Your Plumbing

Most people are aware that they need to take care during winter to protect their plumbing from freezing, but did you know that summer can also put your pipes at risk? In fact, many plumbing issues arise most commonly in the summer. Use these tips to keep your plumbing working well all summer long.

1. Check Sprinklers Carefully

A leak in a sprinkler system can lead to huge water bills and waterlogging in part of your garden. However, there is no reason to wait for a leak to show itself through damage or cost. Before the first use of your sprinkler system, check the hoses and pipes carefully for splits. These often occur during winter because water expands when it freezes inside the hose, causing it to split open.

2. Watch out for Root Disruption of Sewer Lines

During summer, trees expand their root networks, which can lead to problems if they grow into sewer lines. Keep your eyes peeled for the telltale smell of a sewer line problem, which is similar to that of eggs that have gone bad. Call a plumber right away if you notice this bad odour hanging around your property so you can get the problem fixed before your sinks and toilet start backing up.

3. Tackle Pool Problems

Owning a pool can make summer much more enjoyable, but it also means you have some maintenance tasks to carry out. At the start of summer, check the pool pump, heating system and filters to ensure they are not leaking after the winter. You should ensure that the pump is working correctly to keep the pool filled with fresh, clean water. If you find any part that is leaking or not functioning properly, call a pool company or plumber to resolve the issue as soon as possible. Being vigilant about pool maintenance will help to reduce the risk of your pool becoming infested with algae during the hot weather.

4. Keep the Shower Drain Clear

Between sunscreen, mud, hair products and the fact that people shower more often in summer, your shower drain has a lot to handle during the warmer months. Use a drain cover to keep hair out of the drain and empty it every time you shower. If you notice the shower starting to drain more slowly than usual, pour a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down the drain to dissolve any clogs that are starting to build up.