The Ultimate Summer Plumbing Guide for Gilbert Homeowners

As the weather heats up in Gilbert, AZ, it's important to ensure that your home's plumbing system is prepared for the season. The extreme heat can put a lot of pressure on your pipes, leading to potential leaks, clogs, and other issues. In this article, we'll provide some useful summer plumbing tips Gilbert area to help you maintain your home's plumbing system and prevent problems during the summer months.

The first step in preparing your home's plumbing system for the summer is to check your water heater. As the temperature outside rises, you may not need as much hot water, which can cause your water heater to work harder than necessary. Consider turning down the temperature on your water heater to save energy and prevent overheating.

Next, you'll want to inspect your outdoor faucets and hose bibs to make sure they're in good working condition. Look for signs of damage or leaks and replace any worn or damaged parts. If you don't plan on using your outdoor faucets or hoses during the summer, consider turning off the water supply to them to prevent any potential leaks.

With the summer comes more outdoor barbeques and cooking, which means your garbage disposal will be working harder than usual. Be sure to clean it regularly by running cold water and some ice cubes through it. You can also use citrus peels to freshen it up.

Another important tip for summer plumbing maintenance is to keep an eye on your water bill. If you notice a sudden increase in usage, it could be a sign of a leak somewhere in your home. Addressing the issue quickly can save you money and prevent further damage.

Hard water is common in the Gilbert area, which can cause mineral buildup in your pipes and appliances. Consider installing a water softener to prevent this from happening and extend the life of your plumbing system.

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor grilling and cooking, but be careful what you put down the drain. Fats, oils, and grease can solidify in your pipes and cause clogs. Dispose of these items in the trash instead.

To prevent clogs, it's important to keep your drains clear. Use a drain strainer to catch any hair or debris before it goes down the drain, and avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet.

Summer heat can cause pipes to expand and contract, which can lead to leaks. Watch for signs of leaks such as damp spots on walls or ceilings, musty odors, or mold growth. If you suspect a leak, don't hesitate to call a professional plumber.

In case of a plumbing emergency, it's important to know the location of your main water valve. This will allow you to quickly turn off the water supply to your home and prevent further damage.

Regular plumbing maintenance can help prevent major problems and prolong the life of your plumbing system. Consider scheduling a professional plumbing inspection and tune-up before the summer heat sets in. This will allow a licensed plumber to identify any potential issues and address them before they become bigger problems.

In Gilbert, the sun can be intense during the summer months. Direct sunlight can heat your pipes and cause them to expand, which can lead to leaks or bursts. Consider installing insulation around your pipes to protect them from the heat.

If you have an irrigation system, it's important to maintain it properly during the summer. Inspect the sprinkler heads and make sure they're working properly. Adjust the watering schedule as needed to account for the hot, dry weather.

Chemical drain cleaners can be harsh and damaging to your plumbing system. If you have a clog, consider using a natural alternative such as baking soda and vinegar or a drain snake. If you must use a chemical cleaner, follow the instructions carefully and use it sparingly.

We've mentioned this before, but it's worth repeating: don't pour grease down the drain. This can cause clogs and damage to your pipes. Instead, let the grease cool and dispose of it in the trash.

In conclusion, summer plumbing maintenance is important to prevent potential issues with your home's plumbing system. By following these tips, you won't just be protecting your investment, you'll also help prevent costly pipe repairs.. Remember to stay vigilant, monitor your water usage, and call a professional plumber if you suspect any problems.

• How often should I have my plumbing system inspected?
• It's recommended to have a professional plumbing inspection and tune-up once a year.
• Can I use chemical drain cleaners in my garbage disposal?

• It's not recommended. Chemical drain cleaners can damage your plumbing system and harm the environment.
• How can I tell if I leak into my home?

• Look for signs such as damp spots on walls or ceilings, musty odors, or mold growth. You may also notice an increase in your water bill.
• Should I turn off the water supply to my outdoor faucets during the summer?

• If you don't plan on using them, it's a good idea to turn off the water supply to prevent potential leaks.
• Can I install insulation around my pipes myself?

• It's possible, but it's recommended to have a professional plumber handle this to ensure it's done correctly and safely.