When you think about seasonal plumbing issues, you’re probably only considering winter concerns, like frozen pipes. However, the summer months present their own challenges for any plumbing system. To avoid major problems, we encourage homeowners to keep these few tips in mind!
The friendly team at Miller’s Heating and Air Conditioning can help prepare your home with a variety of plumbing services in Virginia Beach. Learn more about the common causes of plumbing repairs during the summer and how you can stay in the clear.
Always Be Mindful Of Clogging
Clogged drains are a year-round concern that plumbers must alleviate. You’ll know there’s a blockage somewhere in your drain if the water in your sinks or shower tub backs up while running. Slow, sluggish drains can lead to big headaches if you don’t clear the clog fast.
The risk of clogging remains the same in the summer if you don’t take steps to avoid it. The following substances are a few reasons why your drain might clog:
- Hair
- Food
- Grease or oil
- Soap residue
- Other foreign objects
Keep these items out of your drains as much as possible. You can use a drain stopper or strainer to prevent anything other than water from flowing down the sink.
If you have a slow-draining fixture, try clearing the clog with an all-natural solution like baking soda and white vinegar. Do not use a chemical drain cleaner, because you risk doing more damage to your pipes.
If your efforts are unsuccessful, reach out to the local plumbing experts at Miller’s Heating and Air Conditioning for effective drain-cleaning services in Virginia Beach, VA. We can quickly address nasty clogs that cause unpleasant odors and water backup. Trust our team to restore your home’s drains so they flow freely again.
Adjust Your Appliance Usage For Vacations
Summer is the most popular time for families to pack up and leave their homes to go on vacation. We understand that when the excitement for a trip takes over, adjusting your plumbing fixtures may not seem like a priority. However, this is one of the best times to plan for maintenance services. Take your water heater, for instance. It doesn’t need to run if no one will be at home for a period of time. It’s smart to avoid potential leaks and breakdowns while you’re away by shutting off the power source.
Additionally, we encourage homeowners to schedule professional maintenance plumbing services in Chesapeake, VA before leaving for vacation. Unfortunate events happen, and a homeowner’s worst nightmare is returning from a trip to water or pipe damage due to plumbing issues. A licensed Miller’s plumber will perform maintenance checks, such as inspecting the function of your water heater and flushing the tank to eliminate any sediment or debris inside.
If you do not schedule plumbing services before vacation, we urge homeowners to do so shortly after your getaway. You’ll return from your trip refreshed and with peace of mind that your plumbing fixtures are in solid condition.
Inspect For Leaks
Plumbing leaks can take shape at any time of the year and in any appliance. Undetected leaks can not only lead to water waste and higher bills but can also damage your home’s structure. Some of the most common places where you may find a leak include:
- Indoor pipes
- Beneath your hot water heater tank
- In sprinkler systems or hoses
- In hose hookups to washing machines and dishwashers
Always give the appliances and pipes in your home a quick glance to spot any dripping water and detect an issue early. Depending on the severity of the leak, plumbing repairs may range from a quick patch-up to appliance replacement or total repiping. Miller’s Heating and Air Conditioning can inspect your system, make the necessary repairs, and provide you with tips to avoid future leaks.
Water Your Lawn With A Purpose
There’s nothing better than spending time on a healthy lawn with vibrant green grass. Achieving this look during dry summer stretches means watering your grass regularly, which is a common reason for the average uptick in water usage during the summer. The EPA has a few suggestions for smart outdoor water use, which preserves your supply without impacting your landscaping.
Your lawn’s main water source is an important factor to start with. If you have a sprinkler system, be mindful that your water usage can run 50% higher than homes without one. Program your irrigation system settings so you optimize your results without using an overwhelming amount of water.
General rules to keep in mind are to water your grass at either daybreak or evenings after the sun sets. The ground will absorb the most moisture at these times, which eliminates the chance of quick evaporation from the sun’s heat. Water your grass only if the blades don’t pop back up after you step on a patch.
Keep in mind your home’s pipe system and any nearby trees or shrubs that are above it. Excess moisture can pull the underground roots closer to your pipes and cause significant damage. Rely on natural precipitation rather than actively watering with your hose or sprinkler.
Protect Your Garbage Disposal From Pesky Produce
Your sink’s garbage disposal makes preparing meals quick and easy by discarding unwanted food residue. But did you know that some of the most popular summer staples can wreak havoc on disposals? Experts recommend placing only small bits of food down your disposal rather than large, clog-forming pieces.
Certain foods can cause major plumbing headaches if put through the garbage disposal. Produce like carrots, celery, melon rinds, and corn husks can significantly damage the disposal’s blade. If this occurs, clogs are more likely to form and can lead to backup that only a professional plumber can fix. The following preventative steps can help you save this essential piece of kitchen plumbing:
- Create a compost pile outside of your sink
- Absorb grease and oil with a paper towel to avoid disposal clogs
- Run cold water before placing food waste in the disposal
Many things could potentially cause problems for your plumbing system, but with the right services, you can keep everything in working order. Let the plumbing professionals at Miller’s Heating and Air Conditioning prepare your home for the summer season with expert maintenance. We offer plumbing services in Chesapeake, VA and the surrounding areas. Contact our specialists to learn more!