The colder season can cause havoc on your pipes. The extra wear and tear of increased water usage or iced over make the plumbing vulnerable. In summer, you might experience issues such as leaks, drips, or clogs. These are relatively easy to fix, but they lead to much bigger problems if ignored. Here are common plumbing issues to fix in summer.

Water Heater Repair

The water heater may develop problems from overworking in winter. You might detect leaks or notice that the water isn’t as hot as it used to be. Get the unit inspected and any issues fixed by a professional.

Consider a water heater replacement when the damage is extensive, or the unit is too old. You'll save money in the long run and be well prepared for winter.

Burst Pipes from Freezing

Frozen pipes are a plumbing issue that occurs in any season but is more common in winter. When the water in the pipes freezes, it expands, causing them to burst. This is a big problem because it leads to significant water damage. To prevent frozen pipes, insulate exposed pipes and keep your home warm.

Thaw gradually with hot water if you think a pipe might be frozen. Never use a blow torch or other open flame to thaw a pipe, as this can cause a fire. Letting faucets drip water prevents frozen pipes. Besides this, check the garage and basement as they receive the most negligible heat. Insulating these areas will prevent frozen pipes and consequential water damage.

Leaky Faucets

A dripping faucet is annoying and wasteful. A single faucet can drip up to 3,000 gallons per year, quickly escalating your water bill. You might need to replace the washer or O-ring. When you can’t figure out the problem, call a plumber. Going for smart faucets that automatically shut off is a great way to save water and money.

Poor Flushing Toilets

You might notice that the toilets aren’t flushing as well as they used to. The problem is caused by a partial clog, a leak in the seal, or a problem with the flapper. If you have multiple toilets with the same problem, call a plumber. They will determine if there is something wrong with the sewer line. Backed-up sewers are a big problem that requires immediate attention.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are a common summer plumbing issue. The issue results from hair, grease, and food going down the drain. Use a plunger, snake, or chemical cleaner to unclog a drain. If the clog is deep in the pipe, call a plumber. Maintenance drain cleaning prevents clogs, so let a professional do it for you, but a simple exercise such as pouring boiling water down the drain or baking soda helps.

Low or High Water Pressure

If you have low water pressure, it’s annoying and can signify a bigger problem. It might be that the water pressure regulator is set too low, or there’s a leak in the pipes. If the pressure from the water heater is too high, it causes the pipes to burst. Let a professional plumber check it out as they have the experience and equipment to fix the problem.

Dirty Sump Pump

Your sump pump prevents flooding by draining water away from your home. The first step is to make sure it’s properly installed. It should be level and connected to the correct size pipe. The discharge pipe should also be the right size and directed away from your home.

Check the power source to make sure it’s working. The float switch should move up and down freely. Clean the sump pump every year to remove dirt or debris. Doing this prevents clogs and ensures it’s working efficiently when you need it.

Summer is a Great Time to Take Care of Plumbing Issues

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors. It’s also an excellent time to care for your plumbing system. You'll have a well-functioning system and avoid any significant problems. A healthy system also enables you to maintain a safe and comfortable home.