3 Reasons Why Summer Plumbing is Different
Reason 1: Increased Water Usage
Gardening, filling swimming pools, and taking more frequent showers all contribute to an increase in water consumption during the summer months. Your plumbing system may be strained as a result of this additional demand, which could result in problems like low water pressure and more wear and tear on pipes and fixtures. The average UK household’s water consumption might rise by up to 25% in the summer, per a study by Waterwise.
Reason 2: Temperature Fluctuations
Even if there aren’t many extremes in the UK, the warmer weather can still affect your plumbing. Higher temperatures, for example, may cause pipes to expand, which, if the pipes are weak or old, may result in leaks or bursts.
Reason 3: Holiday Season
Holidays frequently fall during the summer, which means there will be more visitors and a greater need for plumbing services. This might lead to new problems or worsen current ones, including overworked water heaters or clogged drains.
5 Essential Plumbing Tips for Summer
Tip 1: Check for Leaks
Leak detection is one of the first tasks in summertime plumbing maintenance. A minor leak has the potential to rapidly grow into a big issue, resulting in water damage and higher expenses. Seek wet areas beneath sinks, pay attention to any drips and monitor any strange behaviour on your water meter. It’s best to remedy a leak right away or get professional help if you discover one.
Tip 2: Inspect Outdoor Taps and Hoses
Frequently disregarded, outdoor plumbing is essential, particularly during the summer months. Check for leaks or wear indicators on your outside faucets and hoses. In addition to wasting water, a leaking outdoor tap can cause other problems with landscaping and soil erosion.
Tip 3: Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Water overflow from blocked gutters can harm your home’s foundation and cause moisture. Make sure to routinely clear the leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters and downspouts.
Tip 4: Maintain Your Boiler
Summer is a great time for boiler maintenance, despite the fact that this may seem contradictory. You won’t need to rely on your heating system as much, and engineers are less busy. Your boiler’s lifespan can be increased and it will be ready for the upcoming winter months with routine maintenance.
Tip 5: Be Mindful of Water Usage
Use water-saving strategies including installing water-efficient fixtures, swiftly repairing leaks, and cleaning driveways with a broom rather than a hose. These habits lessen the burden on your plumbing system in addition to conserving water.
Advanced Plumbing Maintenance
Water Pressure
Your pipes and fixtures may sustain damage from high water pressure. To check the pressure, use a water pressure gauge. Consider installing a pressure-reducing valve if it’s too high.
Pipe Insulation
Insulating your pipes can help avoid condensation, which over time can cause corrosion. One easy, yet very effective, approach to extend the life of your plumbing system is using pipe insulation.
Sump Pump Maintenance
The summer is a good time to check the functionality of your sump pump, if you have one. Fill the sump pit with a bucket of water; the pump ought to start and remove the water. If not, it might need to be replaced or maintained.
Professional Help
It is recommended that you contact a skilled plumber for plumbing issues or routine maintenance.
Conclusion
Summer in the UK is a time for rest and recreation, but it can also put your plumbing system to the test. By following these critical and advanced suggestions, you can keep your plumbing in top condition, saving you time and money in the long term.
By following these tips, you can keep your plumbing system running smoothly and efficiently throughout the summer. Whether you’re a homeowner or a tenant, these tips can help you avoid typical plumbing hazards and have a stress-free summer.
