Plumbing tips that everyone needs this summer

Don’t let an unpleasant plumbing problem get in the way of your summertime fun at home!

When schools are out for summer and people take more time off work, that means more toilet flushes, more loads of clothes washes and more dishes, especially if you’re making the most of restrictions easing and barbecuing with family or friends!

If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, you’re likely to be filling paddling pools, watering flowers and sprinkling your lawn. You may also take more showers to keep cool and comfortable.

There are many preventative plumbing measures you can take to prepare for the warm months and make sure you spend most of your time enjoying them instead of worrying about leaks, clogs, low pressure or other plumbing problems.

Inspect for leaks

A long winter can have an impact on plumbing that we can’t see sometimes. Take your chance during the warmer months to take care of any issues before it gets cold again.  Look for rust, corrosion, leaks, broken or bent parts.

For your toilet, put food colouring in the tank to see if it leaks to the bowl without you flushing the toilet.

Take it easy with the toilets

With kids home more often than usual, you should teach your children to use a modest amount of toilet paper to avoid clogs in the toilet. Make sure you don’t flush paper towels or feminine hygiene products.

Clear your gutters

Gutters play an important role in keeping water away from the foundation of your home. To work right, gutters need to be cleared of debris like leaves, twigs and other material.

Save water and money

• Save water and protect the planet – and your wallet!

•Turn off water when your brush teeth and save four gallons a minute.

• Avoid using your tumble dryer. Dry your clothes naturally.

• Wash the car at a car wash, where water is recycled.

• Don’t run water over food to thaw it.

• Avoid watering the lawn on windy days, and set a timer if your sprinkler is not automatic.

• Soak dishes rather than working off stuck-on foods under running water.

• Lather hands with the water off.

The best defence against a plumbing problem and to guarantee that all your plumbing systems are working correctly is to schedule annual maintenance. It is better to prepare and prevent than to repair and regret. Have a look at our affordable home emergency cover and callout services.