5 Expert Plumbing Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Hassle-Free Summer

With summer fast approaching, your calendar is likely filling up with barbecues, outdoor parties, and backyard get-togethers. But before you dive into all the seasonal fun, there’s one area of your home that deserves some attention—your plumbing system.

Summer usually brings increased water usage—more showers, frequent laundry loads, outdoor watering, and more guests. If your plumbing isn’t in peak shape, even a small issue can turn into a disruptive, costly problem. Fortunately, a few preventive steps can help you avoid plumbing surprises and keep your summer running smoothly.

Here are 5 essential plumbing tips to help get your home ready for a stress-free summer.

1. Inspect Outdoor Faucets, Sprinklers & Irrigation Lines

After months of cold weather and disuse, your outdoor plumbing fixtures need a thorough check before you ramp up your watering schedule.

• Hose bibs (spigots): Turn them on and watch for leaks or weak water flow. Leaks inside the wall can also go unnoticed without professional help.

• Sprinkler heads: Replace any broken or misaligned heads that may have been damaged by snow, lawnmowers, or foot traffic.

• Irrigation lines: Underground systems should be tested for leaks or blockages that reduce water efficiency or waste water.

A licensed plumber can detect issues not visible on the surface—saving you water and protecting your landscaping investment.

2. Clean Drains and Inspect Kitchen & Bathroom Fixtures

Your kitchen and bathroom get a lot of traffic during the summer. That makes these rooms the top candidates for leaks, slow drains, or fixture problems.

Start by:

• Clearing out under-sink cabinets and checking for signs of moisture, mildew, or old drip stains.

• Filling sinks and monitoring how quickly the water drains—slow drainage can indicate buildup or partial clogs.

• Inspecting the base of faucets and supply lines for corrosion or leaks.

Avoid using liquid drain cleaners, which can damage pipes. Instead, schedule a professional drain cleaning if you notice recurring slow drains or bad odors.

Pro Tip from the Experts:
“We advise against chemical drain cleaners. While they may remove clogs temporarily, they can corrode metal or plastic piping over time,” says BJ Richardson from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. “A professional cleaning is safer and more effective—and it often comes with a warranty.”

3. Test and Service Your Sump Pump Before Summer Storms

Although summer is known for sunny days, many regions also experience heavy rains that can overwhelm your basement if the sump pump isn’t working.

Here’s how to prep it:

• Pour water into the pit and watch how fast it activates and drains.

• Check the power supply and cord condition.

• Clear any debris from the pump or basin.

If your sump pump fails to start or runs sluggishly, call a technician immediately. A working sump pump is your best defense against basement flooding and mold growth.

4. Check Toilets for Silent Leaks and Worn Parts

A single leaky toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per month. And since toilet leaks often go unnoticed, a quick inspection can save you money and frustration down the road.

Common problems include:

• Worn-out flappers: The rubber flapper inside the tank is a major cause of silent leaks.

• Weak fill valves: If your toilet fills slowly or runs constantly, the fill valve may need replacing.

• Loose connections: Inspect the base and supply lines for small leaks or rust.

Most of these components are affordable and quick to replace. A licensed plumber can perform a full check and ensure everything is operating efficiently—before it turns into a full-blown repair.

5. Flush and Inspect Your Water Heater

While a hot water outage may not feel as urgent in the summer, it can still disrupt showers and daily routines—especially with extra guests around.

Why flush your water heater?
Over time, sediment and mineral deposits settle at the bottom of the tank. This buildup reduces efficiency, causes popping noises, and can shorten the lifespan of the unit.

Have a plumber:

• Drain and flush the tank

• Inspect the anode rod for corrosion

• Check temperature settings and test the pressure relief valve

Performing this task yearly will help prevent breakdowns and ensure steady hot water throughout the season.

Get Peace of Mind Before Summer Begins

“Many of these plumbing checks are simple but often overlooked,” Richardson adds. “Scheduling a professional inspection now means you can relax and enjoy summer without worrying about plumbing disasters.”

Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or heading out on vacation, taking the time to prepare your home’s plumbing can save you from unexpected disruptions. Don’t wait for a leak or clog to ruin your summer plans—preventive maintenance is the key to a carefree season.

📞 Ready to Get Your Home Summer-Ready?

Trust the certified technicians at All Week Plumbing & HVAC to inspect, repair, and optimize your plumbing system for the summer ahead.

• Expert drain cleaning

• Leak detection and repairs

• Water heater service

• Outdoor fixture and irrigation checks

Contact us today or visit our website to explore current seasonal specials and maintenance packages.