Summer Plumbing Tips to Keep Your Home Running Smoothly Aug 02, 2025

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also a critical season to ensure your home's plumbing system is operating at peak efficiency. With the warm weather bringing increased usage and potential plumbing challenges, Suburban Plumbing MN is here to guide you through essential summer plumbing tips. By proactively addressing these areas, you can prevent potential issues and enjoy a hassle-free season.

The first step to maintaining a smooth-running plumbing system is to inspect and clean your drains. Summer often leads to more cooking and outdoor activities, both of which can result in food particles and debris clogging your kitchen sink. Regularly cleaning your drains with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help break down any build-up and keep things flowing smoothly. Consider installing drain screens to catch debris before it becomes a problem.

As temperatures rise, so does the demand on your water heater. Make sure your water heater is functioning efficiently by checking for any leaks, inspecting the pressure relief valve, and flushing the tank to remove sediment build-up. Sediment can lower efficiency and increase energy bills, not to mention shorten the lifespan of the unit. If you’re unsure about performing maintenance checks on your own, Suburban Plumbing MN offers professional services to help keep your water heater in top shape.

The longer days of summer mean more time outside, which can lead to increased water usage in your garden and lawn care routines. Ensure your sprinklers are working efficiently by checking for leaks or clogged nozzles. This ensures water is distributed evenly and avoids wastage. Setting your sprinkler system to run in the early morning or late evening can also minimize evaporation caused by hot midday sun, making your irrigation more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Summer storms and heavy rains can often lead to unexpected plumbing issues. One common problem is sump pump failure, which can result in basement flooding. To prevent this, test your sump pump regularly by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to activate the pump. Make sure it starts automatically and the water is pumped away efficiently. Setup a backup power source, such as a battery backup, to allow your pump to function in case of a power outage caused by storms.

With higher temperatures, it's important to ensure your household uses water responsibly. Simple changes like taking shorter showers, fixing leaky faucets, and only running dishwashers or washing machines with full loads can significantly reduce water consumption. These small actions can contribute to sustainable water use and lower utility bills during high usage periods.

Finally, if you're planning a vacation this summer, prepare your plumbing before you leave. Check for any potential leaks, turn off your main water supply, and set your water heater to vacation mode. This precaution not only prevents potential water damage while you're away but also saves on energy costs.

By following these summer plumbing tips from Suburban Plumbing MN, you can keep your home running smoothly throughout the season. Preventive maintenance is key to avoiding major plumbing issues, allowing you to focus on enjoying your summer with peace of mind. If you find yourself needing professional assistance, our team is always ready to help with expert solutions to ensure your plumbing systems remain efficient and reliable.