While we love seeing our customers, we want to make sure you have a carefree summer and have to call us as little as possible! Don’t let summer plumbing problems spoil your down time! Here are some common (and preventable) issues to watch out for, so you can avoid seeing us this season.
- Outdoor fun = indoor mess: Whether your summer fun involves sand, hiking or any activity that could bring in outdoor debris, you could actually be harming your plumbing by tracking it indoors. When you’re washing up after your adventures, make sure you keep the worst of it out of your drains. They weren’t designed to handle large amounts of sand, gravel and mud, and could become clogged or damaged. Instead, hose yourself—and any kids or pets you took with you—off outside and knock the debris from clothes you plan to place in the washing machine. Your drains will thank you!
- Some summer foods don’t belong in garbage disposal: Your garbage disposal works hard year-round, but summer can pose some additional challenges. For example, some summer fruits and vegetables with fibrous parts like corn husks and cobs, celery sticks, banana peels and artichokes can jam up your disposal. Hard seeds and pits, including popcorn kernels, can also be a hazard. Also, if you’re grilling, make sure guests know not to put bones or fat down your garbage disposal.
- Summer is your sprinkler system’s busiest season: If you had your sprinkler system inspected this spring, you’re a step ahead in keeping it in working order throughout the summer. But, there are still a few things to look out for. Watch where you’re mowing. Aboveground sprinkler heads are easily damaged by mower blades (and vice versa). Prevent pet damage. Tubing and other interesting bits of plastic may be tempting chew toys!
- Is your pet a summer shedder? Some dogs (and most cats) shed all year, while others grow a bulk winter coat that sheds in late spring/early summer. Whatever your breed’s schedule, you’ll want to prevent all that hair from clogging your pipes and causing backups. Make sure you brush your pet regularly and try to avoid bathing a pet in the bathtub if you can. If you can’t, make sure to trap fur and debris before it goes down the drain.
- When it rains, it pours—into your basement: Heavy summer rainfall can overwhelm your gutters and other drainage. If basement flooding is a problem in your home, there are a couple of things you can do to mitigate the damage. Install a sump pump to collect and dispel and water that collects in your basement. If you already have one, make sure it’s in good condition. Keep your gutters, downspouts and other drainage systems clear of debris. Consider having a professional look at your property’s grading. You may need to shift some earth or add more drainage to keep water away from your foundation.
If you have any questions or are experiencing one of these problems, give us a call at 1-800-989-0299! We are available 24/7 for all your plumbing and HVAC needs.