Summer is going to be a busy time for your plumbing system, and the additional strain can open the door to potential problems. A functional drain is crucial for the running of your household. By planning for the busy months ahead, you can protect your drain and ultimately prevent some of the more common summertime plumbing issues. If you want to have a hassle-free summer this year, here are four preventative tips to keep your plumbing system functioning all season long.
Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
Before summer starts, check your sink, shower, and tub drains for any signs of clogs such as slow draining. If you do spot a clog, use manual tools like a plunger or drain snake to remove whatever is causing the obstruction. Avoid chemical drain cleaners, which can be hazardous to your health and your pipes. If you believe chemicals are required for your clogged drain, it’s best to call a plumber for help.
Install Drain Covers
Most summer activities occur outside, and the first thing people like to do after engaging in the outdoors is come home to take a shower. This introduces more dirt, sand, and debris to your shower drains, increasing the risk of clogs in your shower or tub. Luckily, the solution is pretty simple. To prevent clogs, install drain covers to catch hair and debris before they can enter the drain. You should also make a point of dusting or rinsing yourself off before stepping into the shower if you’ve had a particularly messy day.
Check Your Toilet
With kids home from school and frequent visitors to your house, your toilet will be used more during the summer. The first defense is to make sure your toilet can flush properly. Regularly inspect your toilets for corrosion, cracks, and other visible problems. Don’t forget to look inside the tank and inspect the flushing mechanism, too. If you have young children, you should also talk to them about what’s appropriate and inappropriate for flushing away.
Schedule an Inspection
A licensed plumber can assess your plumbing system for any signs of wear, corrosion, or potential issues that could lead to problems down the road. They can also unclog any blockages in your pipes that you can’t fix on your own. Along with drains, your plumber will check for leaks, inspect water heaters, examine pipes, and ensure that your plumbing fixtures are functioning properly.
By planning ahead and taking a few preventative measures, you can give yourself a relaxing summer free from plumbing issues. If you have questions about professional drain cleaning or optimizing your system for the changing season, contact Red’s On Time Plumbing in Atascadero, CA.
