Summer in Buffalo is all about enjoying the sun, but extra showers, constant laundry from beach trips, and sprinklers working overtime can seriously strain your home’s plumbing. Suddenly, your washing machine backs up, or the kids’ sprinkler party turns into a basement flood! Summer plumbing problems can hit when you least expect them. Also, the summer rains should not be forgotten.
Your pipes work harder in summer than you do on your “summer body!” In this blog, our experts at Cellino Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, and Electric are here to walk you through common issues and how to prevent them from spoiling your barbecue plans or vacation budget.
Why Your Pipes Work Overtime in the Summer
Increased Water Usage
Summer means lots more water! Think about it: watering the lawn, filling pools, extra showers after outdoor fun, and constant laundry for all those beach towels. This extra demand puts a big strain on your plumbing system, making any weak spots more likely to turn into an issue.
Outdoor Growth & Activities
While your garden flourishes, so do tree and shrub roots! They actively seek water in warm weather and can sneak into underground pipes, causing annoying clogs and even breaks. Plus, all that dirt, sand, and grass from summer fun often get washed down your drains, adding to the stress on your system.
Summer Weather Impacts
Buffalo’s weather, consisting of summer storms and temperature swings, can also take a toll. Heavy rains can overwhelm your drains, while dry spells followed by sudden downpours can shift the soil, putting stress on pipe connections. Even power outages from thunderstorms can affect your well pump or water heater.
Vacation Surprises
Heading out for vacation? Believe it or not, unused plumbing can cause issues too! Stagnant water can lead to buildup. And coming home to a hidden leak that’s been dripping for days? That’s definitely not the post-vacation glow you want!
Don’t let these common summer plumbing problems catch you off guard! Contact Cellino Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric for preventive maintenance and solutions to keep your summer worry-free!
Common Drainage Issues During the Summer
Outdoor Drain Drama: Watch Out for Yard Debris!
Summer brings beautiful greenery, but all those leaves, grass clippings, and storm debris love to sneak into your outdoor drains. You’ll notice it when rain pools in your yard, turning into a mosquito magnet and potentially harming your foundation.
Quick Fixes & Prevention:
- Install drain covers to catch big stuff.
- Clear drains regularly, especially after storms.
- Trim plants away from drainage areas.
- Flush drains monthly with a hose.
- For summer drain clogs: Try a pressure washer or a plumber’s snake.
Kitchen Sink Mayhem: Too Much Summer Cooking!
BBQs, fresh produce, and family gatherings mean your kitchen sink and garbage disposal are working overtime. Slow drainage or backups are common signs your summer cooking habits are taking a toll.
Smart Kitchen Habits:
- Always use a sink strainer.
- Never pour grease down the drain (it hardens!).
- Run cold water 15 seconds before/after using your disposal.
- Weekly flush: ½ cup baking soda, then ½ cup vinegar; wait 30 mins, then hot water.
- For clogs: Use a plunger or an enzymatic drain cleaner.
Shower Surprises: Sand, Sunscreen & Hair!
Beach days and pool parties are awesome, but sand, sunscreen, and extra showers create a sticky mess in your drains. You’ll notice water pooling around your feet, especially with beach sand mixing with soap and hair to form stubborn clogs.
Shower Power Tips:
- Rinse off outside before coming in.
- Keep a bucket in the shower for sandy feet.
- Use a drain hair catcher.
- Pour boiling water down the drain weekly to dissolve gunk.
- For clogs: Remove the drain cover to pull out visible debris, then use a drain snake.
Garbage Disposal Overload: Party Foul Prevention!
Summer entertaining can push your garbage disposal to its limits, leading to strange noises, odors, or slow draining.
Disposal Do’s & Don’ts:
- Feed waste gradually.
- Always run cold water with use.
- Avoid fibrous foods (corn husks, celery).
- Cut larger items into smaller pieces.
- Clean weekly by grinding ice cubes and lemon peels.
- If jammed: Turn off power, use the hex wrench underneath, or press the reset button. Never reach inside!
Don’t let these summer plumbing problems interrupt your fun! Contact Cellino Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric for reliable and expert drain cleaning and plumbing solutions!
Keeping Your Outdoor Plumbing Happy This Summer in Buffalo!
Sprinkler & Irrigation System Savvy
Leaking Sprinkler Heads
Stepped in a surprise puddle? Seen extra-green spots, or water spraying wonky? Your sprinkler head might be leaking! Often it’s just a clog, which you can clean. If not, you might need a new seal or head(they’re surprisingly easy to replace!).
Sneaky Underground Leaks
These are tricky because they’re hidden! A sudden spike in your water bill is a big clue. Also look for soggy spots in your yard (even without watering), extra green areas, or sinkholes. To check, turn off all water inside and see if your water meter is still moving. For hard-to-find leaks, pros use special gear.
Timer Troubles
Is your sprinkler system watering at odd hours or not at all? Your timer might be acting up! Check connections, replace the backup battery, and reprogram it. Remember to adjust watering as summer gets hotter.
Regular Sprinkler TLC
Just like your car, your sprinklers need maintenance. Monthly, check heads for proper operation and clear debris. Quarterly, clean filters. Annually, get a pro inspection. A little effort now saves big headaches later!
Water Pressure Woes
Is your sprinkler spray weak, or shooting too far? That’s a pressure problem! Low pressure can mean too many heads are on, a closed valve, or a leak. High pressure causes misting and system damage. Adjust zone timing or consider a pressure regulator to get it just right.
Outdoor Plumbing Challenges
Garden Hose & Spigot Care
Your outdoor spigots and hoses get heavy use. Check for drips at the spigot, a small leak wastes tons of water! Tighten connections or replace old washers. Store your hose coiled, drained, and out of direct sun to prevent cracks. And remember to disconnect hoses in the fall to prevent freezing pipes!
Pool Plumbing TLC
- Clogged skimmer baskets and filters are common. Empty skimmer baskets weekly to help your pump work better and last longer.
- Check your water level often; too low can burn out your pump motor.
- Air bubbles in return jets can signal a leak – get it checked!
- Regular maintenance (daily skimming, weekly chemical checks/skimmer cleaning, monthly filter cleaning/pump inspection, seasonal connection checks) keeps your pool sparkling and functional.
Outdoor Shower Drainage
That outdoor shower is amazing after a hot day, but poor drainage can lead to soggy, smelly messes. Always plan for proper drainage! French drains or a small shower pan connected to a dry well can help water soak into the ground. Be sure to check local rules on where shower water can drain, especially with soaps!
Keep Your Summer Fun: Preventive Plumbing Maintenance Tips
Essential Tools for Every Homeowner
- A quality plunger (for both sinks and toilets).
- An adjustable pipe wrench and a basin wrench.
- Plumber’s tape for sealing leaks.
- A drain snake (at least 25 feet).
- A bucket and towels for quick clean-ups.
- A water pressure gauge and toilet leak detection tablets.
Your DIY Summer Plumbing Checklist
- Check visible pipes and connections for any leaks or moisture.
- Test water pressure around your home.
- Inspect outdoor hose bibs and faucets for drips.
- Run water through seldom-used drains (like in guest bathrooms).
- Clean shower heads to prevent mineral buildup.
- Check toilet mechanisms and washing machine hoses.
- Test your basement sump pump before summer storms.
- Look for wet spots or unusual green patches in your yard (potential underground leaks).
- Examine sprinkler heads for damage or blockages.
Smart Water Use Means Healthy Plumbing
- Install low-flow fixtures in showers and sinks.
- Water your lawn in the early morning or evening to prevent waste.
- Collect and reuse water (e.g., from waiting for the shower to warm up) for plants.
- Fix leaky faucets immediately – even small drips waste thousands of gallons.
- Adjust sprinkler systems to water only your lawn, not sidewalks.
- Consider a rain barrel for garden use.
DIY vs. Calling a Pro: When to Get Help
You can likely DIY if it’s:
- A simple clogged drain (sink/shower).
- Replacing faucet washers or aerators.
- Installing new showerheads or toilet flappers.
- A basic toilet clog with a plunger.
- Cleaning P-traps under sinks.
- Tightening loose connections.
Definitely Call a Pro if:
- Your water pressure suddenly drops throughout your home.
- You find hidden leaks inside walls or ceilings.
- Your sewer line backs up into multiple drains.
- Your water heater acts up or stops working.
- There are main water line issues.
- You smell gas near any appliance.
Golden Rule: If it involves shutting off your main water valve or a gas line, call the experts! When in doubt, a quick call to a plumber can help you decide.
Enjoy a trouble-free summer! Contact Cellino Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, and Electric for expert maintenance to all your summer plumbing problems and needs!
Enjoy a Worry-Free Summer with Cellino Plumbing!
Summer brings unique challenges to your home’s plumbing. Understanding common summer plumbing problems like clogged drains, sprinkler system leaks, and overworked disposals helps you prevent costly repairs.
Regular maintenance like checking for leaks, cleaning drains, and inspecting outdoor plumbing to keep things smooth. Before vacation, shut off water and consider a professional check. While you can DIY minor issues, call Cellino Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric for complex problems.
Taking preventive steps now means a trouble-free summer without unexpected and seasonal plumbing issues!
Ready to ensure your home’s plumbing is summer-ready? Contact Cellino Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric in Buffalo, WNY, today! Visit us at www.cellinoplumbing.com or call (716) 302-4488 to schedule your plumbing inspection and service.
