As the warmer months roll in, it’s the perfect time to get your home’s plumbing system ready for summer. While we often think of plumbing issues during winter, the heat, increased water usage, and outdoor activities of summer can also place significant stress on your pipes and fixtures. The good news is that a few simple checks and maintenance steps can help you avoid unexpected issues and costly repairs.
Check for Leaks and Drips
With water usage spiking during summer, especially from gardens, pools, and outdoor taps, it’s important to ensure your system is leak-free. Inspect your taps, showerheads, and hose connections for any signs of dripping or water pooling. Even small leaks can waste thousands of litres over time and drive up your water bill.
Inspect and Clean Outdoor Taps and Fixtures
Your outdoor plumbing works harder in summer. Before you ramp up your garden watering or fill the kiddie pool, check your outdoor taps and hose bibs. Look for signs of rust, corrosion, or cracks. It’s also a great time to flush out any dirt or sediment that may have built up in your garden hoses.
Service Your Hot Water System
Your hot water system works year-round, but summer is a smart time to give it a check-up. Inspect it for rust, leaks, or signs of wear. If it hasn’t been serviced in over a year, book in a professional maintenance check with Collis Bros Plumbing to ensure everything is running efficiently, especially if you’re hosting guests over the holiday period.
Clean Out Your Drains
Warmer weather can increase the risk of unpleasant smells or slow drainage, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. Hair, soap residue, and food scraps can build up over time. Prevent blockages by cleaning out your drains regularly or using a safe drain-clearing product. If a drain is already sluggish or smells foul, it may be time to call in the pros.
Be Mindful of Tree Roots
During dry periods, tree roots naturally seek out water sources, and your underground plumbing can be a target. If you notice slow-draining sinks, strange gurgling noises, or wet patches in the yard, roots could be invading your pipes. A professional inspection can pinpoint the problem early and prevent major damage.
Test Your Stormwater and Gutter Drainage
With sudden summer storms common across Sydney, now’s the time to make sure your stormwater system is ready. Clear out any leaves, debris, or blockages from your gutters and downpipes. A properly flowing system prevents overflow, flooding, and water damage to your home.
Know Where Your Water Shut-off Valve Is
It’s always important to know where your main water shut-off valve is located, especially during summer, when more plumbing-related activities are happening. In case of a burst pipe or emergency, being able to turn off your water quickly can save you time, money, and stress.
Call the Plumbing Pros
Not sure if your plumbing is summer-ready? Collis Bros Plumbing is here to help. From inspections and repairs to outdoor tap upgrades and hot water servicing, we’ve got homeowners covered. Get ahead of any summer plumbing issues with expert advice and professional service. Don’t wait for the heat to bring hidden issues to light; get your plumbing sorted now and enjoy the summer.