In one month’s time, we will officially welcome the return of summer! The season is known for its warm and sunny days, offering a welcome weather change to Canadians who’ve had enough of chilly temperatures. Of course, homeowners don’t have to worry about such issues as frozen pipes and melted snow that may cause flooding. However, the summertime does present a unique set of plumbing challenges.
Here are four surprising plumbing problems that strike in the summer:
1. Backed-up sewer lines.
Warmer temperatures and sudden storms can wreak havoc on sewer systems. Firstly, the summer’s warmth and sunshine enable tree roots to grow more aggressively. As a result, they can invade old or cracked sewer lines. Secondly, the heavy rain that comes down during summer storms can often overwhelm municipal lines. It can lead to sewer backups in your home.
It’s important to know that a backed-up sewer doesn’t just smell awful. It also presents a serious health hazard. Sewage backups can contaminate drinking water supplies, surface water and property. When water is contaminated with sewage, it may carry pathogenic micro-organisms. They can make people very sick upon exposure.
2. Clogged garbage disposals.
Who doesn’t love a savoury-smelling summer barbeque? The only answer we can come with is your garbage disposal! All of that leftover corn, watermelon rinds and greasy meat often finds its way into this kitchen appliance. Disposals often jam or clog under the weight of food waste they aren’t designed to handle. It’s wise to avoid disposing of fibrous vegetables, grease and bones in your garbage disposal.
Perry Santanachote of Consumer Reports stresses that FOGs (fats, oils and grease) are no-nos. They should never be put into a garbage disposal or poured down any drain. “You might not realize that creamy foods like peanut butter and dairy products fall into the FOGs category,” she informs, “So butter, heavy cream, and ice cream are also out of the question.”
3. Outdoor faucet and sprinkler leaks.
Needless to say, we spend a lot more time outdoors during the summer. As a result, you’re likely bound to use your outdoor faucets more frequently. In addition to watering your lawns, you may also be running the sprinkler for a little water play with the kids. Your hose bibs and sprinkler systems will get major summer workouts. This can generate leaks from worn-out washers or cracked piping.
Be sure to check your outdoor faucets and sprinkler heads regularly for drips and unusual pooling in your yard. It’s possible they may have incurred some winter frost damage that went unnoticed. If so, you’ll be driving up your water bill unnecessarily.
4. Washer overload.
What happens when the kids come home from being outdoors during the summer? They fill the hampers with their sweaty clothes. The frequent changing of garments as well as the use of beach towels means that your washing machine will get extra use. This added stress can lead to hose leaks or clogs, especially if the hoses are old or poorly secured.
Make it a point to check your washer hoses for bulges or cracks. As well, keep a bit of space between the washing machine and the wall to prevent hose pinching.
Contact 2 Bro’s Plumbing for help!
Summer should be about enjoying the sunshine, not dealing with plumbing disasters. Regular maintenance and early detection can help you avoid surprise breakdowns and costly repairs. For 24/7 expert plumbing help, call 2 Bro’s Plumbing at 905-556-0790. You may also email us at admin@2brosplumbing.ca.
