Summer Plumbing Maintenance Checklist
Summer’s here, and it’s the perfect time to give your home’s plumbing some TLC. Abel Plumbing recommends these essential maintenance steps to keep everything flowing smoothly all season long:
Check Toilet Seals
Toilets tend to leak when seals wear out due to constant use. Look for water pooling around the base of the toilet. If you see any signs of a leak, replace the wax or rubber gasket before it damages your flooring or drywall. If you’re not the DIY type, call us to fix your toilet for you!
Watch for Humidity-Related Leaks or Mold
Minnesota summers can be muggy! Check for moisture around shower seals, under sinks, and by the dishwasher. A little bit of mold or water can quickly turn into a bigger problem by ruining floors, walls, or appliances. If you notice any water in these areas, Abel Plumbing can do an inspection to diagnose and take care of the issue..
Inspect & Test Your Sump Pump
We know that MN weather easily turns on a dime, and thunderstorms can happen out of nowhere. Storms often mean a higher chance of flooding, especially in areas with a history of heavy rain. If you have a sump pump in your basement, now is the time to make sure it’s working properly. Here’s how to make sure your sump pump is ready for a heavy rainfall:
Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates, drains efficiently, and shuts off properly.
Clear the pit of debris and inspect the discharge line. It should lead away from your foundation and stay free of obstructions.
Consider a battery backup system to protect your basement during summer storms or power outages.
Look Over Your Water Heater
Preventing water heater issues is easier - and more affordable - than dealing with an emergency repair. Regular maintenance can keep your system running at its best, extend its lifespan, and ensure you're never left in the cold. Here’s how regular maintenance can help:
Sediment Flush: A water heater flush removes the buildup of minerals and debris, allowing your heater to run more efficiently.
Check for Leaks and Corrosion: Regular inspections can identify potential leaks or corroding parts before they cause serious damage.
Temperature and Pressure Checks: A routine check on your thermostat and pressure relief valve ensures your water heater is operating safely and effectively.
Make Sure Your Outdoor Plumbing Is In Working Order
While many of our tips are for your everyday indoor plumbing maintenance, don’t forget about your outdoor fixtures! Sprinklers, hoses, drains, and even your gutters can damage your home if they fail. These maintenance tasks will keep water outside where it belongs:
Clean Sprinkler Heads & Inspect Hose Connections
Remove debris, dirt, or sediment clogging sprinkler heads to ensure even coverage and water efficiency.
Tighten hose bibs and check hoses for cracks or signs of wear. Leaks aren’t just wasteful - they can erode your foundation over time!
Check Outdoor Drains & Downspouts
Summer storms can clog gutters and downspouts, leading to flooding. Clean them out to protect your foundation and basement.
Vacuum Drain Covers & Clean Fixture Screens
Outdoor drains near patios or pools can collect leaves and debris—clean them out to prevent back-ups.
Indoors, unscrew aerators on faucets and spray them out to restore good flow and reduce mineral buildup.
At Abel Plumbing, we’re ready to handle it all! Whether you're due for a sump pump tune-up, leaky toilet fix, or general inspection. Don’t wait for a broken pipe or water heater leak to call - let’s make sure your plumbing is summer-ready! Call us today at (763)‑682‑4105 or reach out online for a free estimate or to schedule your seasonal check-up.