Summer is here—and with it comes sunshine, vacations, backyard BBQs, and… plumbing problems? That’s right. While summer is typically a time for fun and relaxation, it can also bring a few unexpected issues for your home’s plumbing system. At Blount's Speedy Rooter, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you stay ahead of the curve with a heads-up on the most common summer plumbing problems.
Here’s what to keep an eye out for this season—and what you can do to prevent a small issue from turning into a major headache.
1. Clogged Garbage Disposals
Summer and cookouts go hand in hand, but your garbage disposal might not be quite as excited about those ribs, corn husks, or watermelon rinds. Warm-weather meals often include stringy veggies, greasy meats, and fruit pits—all of which can wreak havoc on your disposal if they go down the drain.
What to do: Be mindful of what you’re putting into the disposal. Avoid dumping oil, bones, or fibrous vegetables like celery. When in doubt, scrape food into the trash or compost bin. And always run cold water while using the disposal to help everything flush through smoothly.
2. Sewer Line Backups
Heavy summer rains and tree root growth can create the perfect storm for sewer line trouble. Roots seek out moisture, and if your sewer line has even a small crack, roots can wiggle their way in and block things up. If you notice foul smells, slow drains, or gurgling toilets, your sewer line could be the culprit.
What to do: Regular sewer inspections can catch small issues before they get worse. If your home has older pipes or lots of surrounding trees, a professional inspection (like the ones we offer at Blount’s!) might be a good idea before the summer storms hit hard.
3. Sprinkler System Leaks
Lawn care is a big summer chore, and if you’re using an in-ground sprinkler system, it’s important to make sure everything is in working order. Sprinkler heads can get damaged by lawn mowers, pets, or even foot traffic, causing water to leak out and drive up your water bill.
What to do: Do a quick walk-through while the sprinklers are running to check for any leaks, pooling water, or misdirected spray. If something seems off, one of our pros can take a closer look and make sure your irrigation system is running efficiently.
4. Washing Machine Overload
Between beach towels, sweaty clothes, and muddy kids, your washing machine sees a lot more action in the summer. This increased use can put stress on hoses and drains, leading to leaks or backups if the system isn’t in tip-top shape.
What to do: Inspect your hoses for any signs of bulging, cracks, or leaks. Make sure your washing machine is level and not shaking during cycles. And don’t overload the machine with heavy beach towels—spread out the laundry love!
5. Toilet Trouble (Especially with Guests)
Summer is prime time for out-of-town guests, and that means your bathrooms are busier than usual. More use can lead to more clogs or other toilet troubles—especially in older plumbing systems that are already a bit finicky.
What to do: Place a small wastebasket in the bathroom so guests don’t flush anything they shouldn’t. Keep a plunger nearby just in case, and consider having a professional plumber give your system a quick once-over before any big gatherings.
6. Water Heater Woes
You might think hot water isn’t as crucial in the summer, but you still rely on it for showers, laundry, and dishes. Hot weather can sometimes overwork an already struggling water heater—especially if it’s older or hasn’t been serviced in a while.
What to do: Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup, which can make it work harder and less efficiently. If your hot water supply seems to be getting smaller and smaller, it might be time for a check-up or an upgrade.
7. Outdoor Faucet Leaks
After a long winter, outdoor faucets and hose bibs may have small cracks or leaks from freeze damage. Summer is usually when these issues come to light, especially when you hook up the hose for gardening, washing the car, or filling up a kiddie pool.
What to do: Turn on your outdoor faucets and check for drips or leaks around the base. If you notice water where it shouldn’t be, give us a shout—we’ll help you fix it fast so you can get back to enjoying your yard.
Don’t Let Plumbing Problems Ruin Your Summer
At Blount’s Speedy Rooter, we know that the last thing you want to deal with during the summer is a plumbing disaster. Our experienced team is here to help you stay ahead of common issues with quick, reliable, and friendly service that keeps your home running smoothly.
Whether you're dealing with a surprise leak, a sewer scare, or just need help getting your system ready for summer, we’ve got your back. Let us handle your plumbing needs, so you can focus on making the most of these sunny days!
Give us a call at (254) 452-5490 or contact us online to schedule service today—we’ll be there when you need us most.