Summer is around the corner, and that means barbecues, graduation parties, Fourth of July excitement and other outdoor events are potentially part of your seasonal plans. But before you finalize the summer calendar, you’ll want to ensure your plumbing system is equipped for increased use.
A plumbing problem while entertaining guests is a headache that will surely weaken your summer groove. So, the team at Climate Control Service Experts, the nation’s trusted name for plumbing, heating and cooling repairs and maintenance, has provided some beneficial plumbing maintenance tips. Handle them promptly to better assure your summer schedule will be as relaxing as planned.
1. Inspect your hose spigot, sprinkler and irrigation systems
Coming out of winter and holiday indoor parties, it’s easy to overlook the plumbing on the outside of your home. But it’s really a great place to start your plumbing maintenance and inspections. Damaged sprinkler heads will have to be replaced, as they’ll soon be depended on more heavily to keep your grass watered and your kids cool as they spontaneously dash through them for an afternoon refresher. Underground sprinkler and irrigation lines should also be assessed for leaks as well as your hose spigot too. While exterior hose spigot leaks can be obvious to notice yourself, a professional can warn you of ones that may occur on the interior of the wall, too.
2. Clean and unclog bathroom and kitchen drains, examine fixtures
Kitchens and bathrooms are your most common spaces for a plumbing disaster. You can begin your evaluation by clearing away all items under sinks to examine drain pipes and the bottom of faucets for leaks. Your cabinets might provide clues as well. Mildew, warped wood and old drip spots are signs of leaks from either drain pipes or fixtures. Fill sinks with water and observe how easily the drain functions. All clogs and leaks should be dealt with immediately by a professional, and you won’t want to count on liquid agents as a long-term remedy for clogs either.
“We strongly discourage homeowners from tackling drain problems with a liquid agent. They may address the clog, but they may also damage plastic or metal pipes,” said BJ Richardson of Climate Control Service Experts. “A professional can clean out all your drains, fix a bad one and bring peace of mind with a warranty.”
3. Don’t overlook your sump pump
Summer brings mild weather but also heavy rain in several areas of the country. Those rains might result in floods in basements if your sump pump is not working correctly. A properly functioning unit minimizes the potential for mold and water problems that can develop even from trivial soil seepage at all times of year. The pump should be professionally inspected, debris cleaned away, the power cord looked at, and most important, water put in to the pit to see how soon it responds. If it stops or acts slowly, it may have to be fixed.
4. Fix toilet leaks
Your water bill may be thankful for this project the most. A few quick inspections by a certified service professional could save you water and help you avoid a costly repair. Toilets frequently leak near the flapper inside the tank, which can wear out over time. A pro can also promptly review other components in the tank and around the whole toilet as well. The components within the tank, in particular, are pretty inexpensive; so, if hoses or washers seem worn or the fill valve seems slow, all these components can be changed out by a professional quickly and cost-effectively. And keep in mind, putting off even the smallest toilet repair today will only become more substantial, more expensive issues in the future.
5. It’s a convenient time to drain the water heater
Even though a water heater failure may not seem like it’s as unpleasant in the summer as it could be in colder months, it’s a hassle regardless. If you haven’t drained your water heater this year, you’ll want to take action before the summertime fun is in full swing and showers are in high demand by guests. Water heaters accumulate minerals and grime at the tank’s base, which could result in corrosion and the need for a water heater repair or replacement. A professional plumber can complete this simple task for you while also attending to other maintenance tasks.
“A lot of these inspections may seem like common sense, but they can easily go overlooked when our lives get busy,” Richardson added. “You can schedule a certified professional to inspect all of your plumbing systems today. That way you can confidently plan your summer fun without the worry of unexpected surprises.”
All set to request a Climate Control Service Experts technician to help get your home ready for the highest level of summertime fun? You can also visit our website today to learn about our seasonal maintenance specials and repairs.
Disclaimer: Source: GET Creative, a division of USA TODAY