We all know that cold weather can be hard on your plumbing. Icy weather conditions can lead to frozen water pipes and even bursts in extreme cases. But can warm weather affect your plumbing? As temperatures rise, the scorching heat can impact your plumbing system. In this article, Mr. Rooter Plumbing explains how a heatwave can affect your plumbing and what you can do to protect your plumbing system. When you’re looking for a skilled plumber to inspect your plumbing, we are the specialists to call.
Increased Water Demand
One of the biggest impacts of a heatwave is the increased demand for water. Whether it’s filling up pools, running sprinklers more often, taking extra showers, or keeping the garden alive, your plumbing system works harder during hot weather. If your system is older or already struggling with issues like low water pressure or slow drains, the added stress can lead to breakdowns. That’s why summer is a good time to schedule a plumbing inspection to ensure everything is running efficiently.
Outdoor Plumbing Stress
Outdoor faucets, hose bibs, and irrigation systems are vulnerable during a heatwave. Constant exposure to high temperatures and UV rays can weaken rubber seals, cause hoses to crack, and even lead to pipe expansion. If you notice leaks, drips, or low water flow from your outdoor fixtures, it’s a warning sign that you need to call a local plumbing repair service. It’s also important to make sure your sprinkler system is properly timed and not overwatering.
Hot Water Heater Strain
Believe it or not, your water heater can also suffer during extreme heat. While you might not think much about hot water in the summer, your water heater still has to maintain the set temperature, which can be challenging if the unit is located in a hot garage or poorly ventilated area. Sediment buildup inside the tank, common after heavy winter use, can also reduce efficiency and cause overheating. A professional flush or inspection can help prevent issues before they leave you without hot water when you least expect it. Contact a nearby plumbing repair service to inspect your water heater and restore proper functioning.
Pipe Expansion and Cracking
Intense heat can cause pipes to expand, especially if they’re exposed or poorly insulated. As they expand and contract, the stress on pipe joints increases, which can lead to small cracks or leaks over time. Older pipes made of metal or PVC are more susceptible to damage from temperature fluctuations. If you have exposed plumbing in areas like crawl spaces, garages, or basements, consider having them insulated to protect against heat damage.
Preventative Maintenance for The Summer Season
The best way to prepare your plumbing system for a heatwave is with preventative maintenance. A professional plumber can check for leaks, test water pressure, flush your water heater, and inspect outdoor fixtures to ensure your home is ready for the hot months ahead. A proactive approach can help you avoid major headaches later—like burst pipes, water damage, or high water bills.
How Mr. Rooter Plumbing Can Help
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we have a team of seasoned plumbers who can help you prepare your home for the summer heat. We can inspect your plumbing system to ensure it’s ready for increased water usage, fix any existing leaks, and make sure your outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems are working efficiently. If you experience problems such as low water pressure, slow-draining sinks, leaky hose bibs, or unexpected spikes in your water bill, our skilled plumbers are here to help. Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing to help you protect your plumbing system this summer.
