The sunny days and warmer temperatures are here, and the last thing you want to deal with is a plumbing crisis. From the increased water consumption from irrigation and pools to the strain on your pipes and fixtures, this seasonal shift puts your home’s plumbing system under tremendous stress. Don’t let a plumbing leak or blocked drain ruin your holiday, and get ahead of your summer preparation. This guide offers expert tips and checks to help you prevent costly emergencies and unnecessary stress.
Reticulation and Leaks
The biggest water waste in the summer often happens outside the house. Whether you are using a sprinkler to keep your lawn lush or getting the pool ready, even the smallest outdoor leak can quickly escalate and contribute to a shocking water bill.
Outdoor taps and hoses are one of the biggest sources of water leaks. The extreme summer heat makes rubber and plastic connections brittle and more prone to breakage. Checking for any signs of constant dripping or water pooling near the tap base can save you from expensive costs. If you notice any bulging or fine splits in your hose, it is an indicator that it needs replacing before it bursts completely. Lastly, turn your outdoor tap on and off, ensuring it forms a tight seal. If the tap drips even when fully closed, it most likely requires professional plumbing services.
Drain Blockages
Drain blockages are a common issue in the summer due to increased entertaining and outdoor activities. After a day out at the beach or in the garden, be sure to rinse off and clean your equipment before heading inside. Sediments such as sand and soil are detrimental to your drainage system, solidifying and causing non-dissolvable clogs. If you are struggling with a constantly blocked drain, professional plumbing may be necessary.
For those summer entertaining days, it is vital to remember that food scraps and grease are prone to solidifying quickly in pipes. Always scrape any waste directly into the bin to prevent your drain from clogging up.
Increased Efficiency
Mineral buildup inside your hot water system tank is common year-round. However, after a period of increased usage during the colder seasons, it is most likely suffering from neglect. Sediment in your hot water system acts as an insulator, forcing it to work harder to heat the water, reducing efficiency and shortening the unit’s lifespan. To prevent any unexpected breakdowns, we recommend scheduling a routine plumbing service on your hot water system.
To maximise energy savings, we also recommended lowering your hot water system’s thermostat slightly. As most people naturally take cooler showers during the summer months, a small adjustment to your thermostat can significantly reduce energy consumption. However, it is important to keep the temperature above 60 degrees inside the tank to prevent the growth of bacteria. If you are unsure how to do this safely, ask your plumber during your next service.
Scheduling Your Routine Check
By dedicating time to these proactive checks, you are actively preventing plumbing issues from disrupting your holiday season. From inspecting your hoses and pipes to scheduling routine hot water system checks, every simple check is an investment in ongoing water savings and reduces your risk of potential repair costs.
Don’t let a plumbing problem ruin your holiday. The experts at Plumbers and Gasfitters Bunbury are here to provide you with 24/7, reliable plumbing solutions this holiday season. Whether you have a blocked drain, a hot water leak, or require specialised gas work done, contact us today.
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