Problems with your plumbing can really take the fun out of summer, but you can save yourself the stress by doing a few things every season to protect your home’s plumbing.
The following are the best tips for keeping your plumbing in great shape during the hottest season of the year.
- If you have not done so yet, schedule your annual plumbing maintenance. Finding problems before they get out of control will save you money and annoyance.
During the summer, your washing machine should be kept four inches away from the wall to prevent hose damage. Never leave your home with the washer running, either. Households with children often use their washing machines more during the summer, so keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear. Check your washer’s hoses for cracks, bulging, or leaking, and remember to replace the hoses every three years. - If you do have children home for the summer, teach them how to use the smallest amount of toilet paper possible. Not only will this save you money, it will help prevent toilet clogs.
Summer might mean more cooking at home and more cookouts with friends. Be careful what you put down your garbage disposal. Hard fruits and vegetables (like melons) and hot oils can damage the disposal and lead to clogs. Make sure you run the water for 15 seconds before you use the disposal to ensure it is clear. Foods that you add water to such as instant mashed potatoes and stuffing will clog the drain when you add water. Other food items to avoid include rice, pastas, and eggshells. - If you are going on vacation, turn down the temperature of your water heater to save money. Once you remove highly perishable foods like meat and milk from your refrigerator, you can raise its temperature, and this will help you save money and energy while you are gone.
- Your ductwork can sweat in humid weather because of condensation, and you should make sure your drains are clear to prevent backups. If you have an attic, check the insulation drain pan for water, and call for service if you find any.
- Hand washing your dishes is inefficient, and you will actually be saving water and energy by relaxing and letting your dishwasher do the hard work. You can save even more energy by letting your dishes air dry instead of using the drying cycle.
- Have your sewer line inspected by a professional to ensure tree roots have not grown into it. Heavy summer rains could cause sewer line issues, but regular inspection means you can take care of problems early.
- You should check your home’s plumbing fixtures regularly for leaking, and doing a seasonal check will help you keep track of your inspections. Visually inspect your sinks, shower, and toilets for leaks, and check your water meter before bed and when you get up in the morning to monitor for usage. Most people do not use water overnight, so you will know there is a leak if the meter moves.
Your plumbing gets quite the workout during the summer thanks to sprinklers, garden hoses, and filling swimming pools. Making sure your plumbing system is working its best now will save you money and hassle throughout the year. Call Edwin Stipe in Easton, PA now at 610-258-0201 for your plumbing inspection.
