Typical Summer Plumbing Issues and Solutions for Homeowners
Summer is a time for pool days, cookouts, road trips—and sometimes, surprise plumbing issues. Yep, your plumbing system can get a little stressed out during the hotter months, especially when your home sees more activity and your yard gets more water than usual. Don’t worry, though. You don’t need to be a plumbing pro to stay ahead of these issues. Here are some of the most common summer plumbing problems, why they happen, and a few tips on how to fix (or prevent) them.
1. Clogged Garbage Disposal
Why it happens: Summer meals often include foods that garbage disposals hate: corn husks, melon rinds, greasy BBQ leftovers—you name it. Add in more frequent cooking and guests, and it’s no surprise your disposal can get overwhelmed.
How to fix it:
- First, turn off the disposal and unplug it if possible.
- Use tongs or pliers (never your hands!) to remove visible blockages.
- Try a reset using the little button on the bottom of the unit.
- Still stuck? A professional can safely disassemble and clear it out.
Pro tip: Run cold water before and after using the disposal, and avoid putting stringy or fibrous foods down the drain.
2. Backed-Up Sewer Lines
Why it happens: Heavy summer rains can overwhelm sewer systems, especially if tree roots have worked their way into the pipes. A sewage backup is every homeowner’s nightmare—and it smells as bad as it sounds.
How to fix it:
- If multiple drains are slow or you smell sewage, stop using water and call a plumber ASAP.
- Avoid using chemical drain cleaners—they often make things worse.
Prevention tip: Schedule a sewer line inspection every few years, especially if you have large trees or an older home.
3. Sprinkler System Leaks
Why it happens: Sprinkler heads are easy targets for lawnmowers, kids, pets, or even just regular wear and tear. A broken head or underground leak can waste a ton of water (and money).
How to fix it:
- Look for soggy spots or unusually high water bills.
- Check sprinkler heads for visible damage and replace them if needed.
- If you suspect an underground leak, call in a pro—digging blind can do more harm than good.
4. Washing Machine Trouble
Why it happens: More outdoor activities = more laundry. Whether it’s beach towels or muddy sports gear, your washer works overtime in the summer. That extra load can lead to clogs, leaks, or even floods.
How to fix it:
- Inspect hoses for bulges or cracks, and make sure connections are tight.
- Don’t overload the machine. If you’re doing multiple loads a day, give it a break in between.
Upgrade tip: Consider switching to braided stainless steel hoses—they’re much more durable than rubber ones.
5. Outdoor Faucet or Hose Bib Leaks
Why it happens: Freezing temps in winter can crack pipes or hose bibs, but you might not notice until summer when you finally turn them back on. That small drip could be wasting gallons of water a day.
How to fix it:
- Check for dripping even when the hose is off.
- Tighten the connection, and if that doesn’t work, the washer or the entire bib might need replacing.
- If there’s water pooling near your foundation, shut it off and call for help—leaks near the house can lead to serious damage.
Contact Steve’s Plumbing for Help With Plumbing Problems in Lynnwood, WA and the Surrounding Areas
A little maintenence truly goes a long way. Summer plumbing problems are super common, but most can be avoided with a little extra care. Keep an eye (and ear) out for leaks, odd sounds, or changes in water pressure. And when in doubt—don’t DIY it. It’s always better to call a professional than to turn a small issue into a big (and expensive) one.
Need help with a plumbing issue this summer? We’re just a phone call away and ready to help you keep things running smoothly—so you can get back to enjoying your summer.