Summertime is here and that means temperatures are going to just keep rising. So, make sure you’re fully prepared for possible problems heat can cause to your plumbing. 

AIR CONDITIONING DRAINS

You may know that you should change your air conditioning filter every three months or so, but when was the last time your air conditioning drain was inspected or cleaned? Summer is the perfect time for mold to start growing, and the drain is the perfect spot. Since it is almost always damp throughout the summer months, mold, mildew, and fungus can take up residence in the pan.

Air conditioning issues can also be caused by deposits building up in the drain over time. This can lead to blockages, which are ideal for further mold growth. Leaving growth unchecked can cause mold spores and gasses to enter your home, greatly affecting your indoor air quality and your family’s health.

A blockage can also result in overflow and leakage. With nowhere to go, water will eventually overflow in the pan and can lead to damage to your home.

Having your air conditioning drain cleaned once a year can prevent blockages, leakage, and flooding. Ignoring the issue can result in damage to your home’s walls, air conditioning unit, and flooring, especially if it goes unnoticed for some time.

EXPANDING PIPES AND LOW WATER PRESSURE

It’s not only cold weather that can affect your pipes and cause them to expand. Hot summer weather can make your pipes burst just like winter can! One sign that your pipes might be on the edge is a change in water pressure.

Sometimes low water pressure is just an annoyance—like when there’s not enough flow to wash the sand off of you after a day at the beach—but it could also point to a larger problem. Pressure changes can be caused by leaks, corrosion build-up, and water supply malfunctions. If you’re experiencing lower-than-usual water pressure, it may be time to call a professional.

NO COLD WATER

With rising temperatures, it’s only normal that water temperatures rise as well. If it’s a blistering hot day, you may not get the cool water you desire. To combat this, let your water run for a bit longer than usual to get the cold results you’re looking for.

SHIFTING FOUNDATIONS

Did you know that hot weather can actually cause the ground to move? Shifting foundations and cracking ground can affect your home and your plumbing by putting a serious strain on your pipes. They may even expand or contract. Heat can also expand the soil that your pipes sit in, in turn shifting the pipes, often causing them to burst. Droughts can have the same effects. Lack of water causes the soil to contract and sink, taking your pipes along for the ride. If your home is experiencing major changes in its foundation, you’ll likely see cracks in the walls, especially in the corners.

You can help the soil by watering or placing plants around the perimeter of the foundation. Plants can help moderate the temperature of the soil while also holding the ground together more effectively with roots.”

CLOGGED TOILETS

June, July, and August mean the kids are home for the summer! It can also mean more friends and family visit for BBQs and the Fourth of July. This leads to an increase in bathroom use and, sadly, can tend to lead to clogged toilets.

Regularly check how your toilet flushes and have a good look at the base. This can reveal signs of water damage, stains, and rolled vinyl, which are all evidence of a leak. Make sure to have a trash can in your bathroom as well to make sure your guests don’t throw paper towels, sanitary items, and more into the toilet.

DISCOVERING LEAKS

It’s very important to report the leak to a professional plumber as soon as it is discovered.

Check your yard and home regularly for any signs of excess water. Soft floors, warped cabinets, and washing machine hose ruptures are all signs of a leak. Also, make sure to monitor your water bill for any inconsistencies.

If you’re unsure whether a leak has occurred, try turning off the water in your home, and record the water meter. After a few hours, check the meter again. If the usage has increased, that may be evidence of a leak.

For major leaks, turn off your water, and contact a professional as soon as possible. Allowing any leak to run free can result in extensive damage to your walls, appliances, flooring, yard, basement, and more.