What Are the Most Common Plumbing Issues in the Summer?

Did you know that every season presents its own unique challenges for plumbing? While most homeowners know that frozen pipes are a danger in the winter, summer is known as a time for vacationing. However, there is no such thing as an “off-season” when it comes to plumbing problems, and summer conditions can cause trouble for the pipes in your home, too.

Being forced to deal with pipe trouble in the summer can put a damper on your vacation time, but by practicing the right plumbing maintenance steps, both in the summer and during the rest of the year. If you’re overdue for plumbing maintenance, knowing what issues to expect in the summer is a great place to start. These are some of the most commonly reported summer plumbing problems and how to handle them:

Basement Flooding  

If you’ve ever experienced flooding in your basement, you know what a hassle it can be to clean up. The presence of water in your basement can lead to serious structural issues if it’s not addressed promptly. In the summer, the frequency of heavy rain storms makes basement flooding happen far more often than in other seasons.   

If your home’s sump pump is not working properly, you could be setting yourself up for a potential disaster. To avoid a summer basement flood, you should check your home’s sump pump early in the season and consider installing a backup one if you haven’t already. Back up sump pump installation can help keep your basement dry if your primary pump gives out, potentially saving you a lot of time and money repairing water damage.  

Clogged Shower Drains 

Another plumbing problem that commonly plagues homeowners in the summer is a clogged shower drain. Frequent trips to the sandbox and lake beaches every summer may lead to more dirt, pebbles, and other types of debris being tracked into showers and bathrooms and consequently stuck in drains. Sometimes, partial clogs can lead to slower draining and be difficult to notice at first. However, clogs will likely never get better on their own. If you can’t resolve the issue yourself with at-home drain solutions, then it’s best to request professional help.

Garbage Disposal Issues 

In addition to shower drains, the garbage disposal is another component of your home’s plumbing that often experiences problems in the summer. Popular summer foods are a major contributor to this, as fruit pits and grease from grilled meats are common culprits for garbage disposal clogs in general. Having the right plumbing professionals to call in the event of a clog is key, but knowing what foods can safely go into your disposal can help prevent backups from happening and keep your kitchen running smoothly all summer long.   

Contact Northern Services today to learn more about water line repair and other plumbing services in Olivia, MN, and the surrounding areas.