Preparing Your Outdoor Plumbing for Summer
Memorial Weekend is the unofficial start to summer - and with the long weekend behind us, it’s time to start your summertime home maintenance! As the days get longer and temperatures rise, it’s time to turn your attention to your home’s outdoor plumbing. Summer brings increased demand on your plumbing systems, especially outdoor faucets, sprinkler systems, and irrigation lines. Abel Plumbing is here to help ensure your home is ready for the season with practical, proactive maintenance tips.
Inspect Outdoor Faucets for Winter Damage
Outdoor faucets, also known as hose bibs, often take the brunt of winter’s chill. Hopefully you followed our advice for winterizing your outdoor plumbing, but it’s always a good idea to inspect your outdoor faucets, hoses, and sprinklers for cracks or leaks. Turn the faucet on and check for water leaking from the spout, handle, or wall connection. Even a small drip can indicate a frozen pipe or seal failure over the winter, and if left unaddressed, it could lead to costly repairs or water waste.
Do you have plumbing connected to outdoor fixtures such as poolside bars or showers? Don’t forget to check those faucets, pipes, and surrounding areas for any leaks or signs of damage that may have occurred over the winter months!
Test Your Sprinkler System
Your sprinkler system is about to start working hard! But before flipping it on for regular use, conduct a thorough inspection. Look for:
Broken or clogged sprinkler heads
Uneven spray patterns or low water pressure
Signs of leaks around valves or connectors
Run each zone for a few minutes and walk the yard to make sure everything is operating efficiently. A well-maintained sprinkler system keeps your lawn healthy without spiking your water bill.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Make sure outdoor water stays outdoors. Keeping your gutters and downspouts clean is essential for preventing water damage to your home during heavy summer rains. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow onto your roof and siding, leading to potential leaks and other issues. Take the time to regularly remove debris from your gutters and downspouts throughout the summer - keeping them clear can also help ensure your sump pump doesn’t get overloaded after a heavy rainfall!
Don’t Forget About the Indoors
Check for Leaks:
One of the first things you should do to prepare your plumbing for the summer is to check for leaks in your pipes, faucets, or fixtures, which may have sustained damage over the winter. Small leaks can waste a significant amount of water and lead to higher utility bills. Look for signs of water damage, such as damp spots on walls or ceilings, and address any leaks promptly.
Consider Installing a Water Softener:
Hard water can cause many issues with your plumbing system, including clogs in pipes and reduced efficiency of appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. To prevent these problems from occurring, consider installing a water softener system before the start of summer.
Service Your Air Conditioning Unit:
Your air conditioning unit plays a significant role in keeping your home cool during the summer, but did you know that it can also impact your plumbing system? A poorly maintained AC unit can lead to condensation buildup that may affect nearby pipes or fixtures. Schedule a professional service appointment before the start of summer to ensure that your AC unit is in good working order. This will ensure you stay cool and may even save you money from a plumbing disaster!
Schedule a Professional Inspection
While DIY checks are important, having a professional plumber like Abel Plumbing inspect your outdoor plumbing ensures nothing gets overlooked. Having a professional inspection can catch issues early and help extend the life of your systems.
Don't Let Outdoor Plumbing Problems Spoil Your Summer Fun!
A little prep work now can save you major headaches later. Whether you need help diagnosing a leak, repairing a sprinkler system, or preparing your irrigation setup for the season, Abel Plumbing has you covered. Contact us today to schedule your summer plumbing tune-up - and enjoy the season worry-free!