Your plumbing system works hard all year-round but can be really overworked in the summertime. From blocked toilets to septic tank problems, here are a few of the common plumbing issues that may arise in the summer and what you can do about them.

5 Plumbing Issues That Arise in the Summer

1. Clogged Toilets

With children out of school and more visitors flushing in the house, clogged toilets may become a problem. Remind your children that only human waste and small amounts of toilet paper should be flushed. Typically, toilet clogs can be cleared with a plunger, but if that doesn't work, call in the professionals.

2. Jammed Garbage Disposal

With summer cookouts in full swing, all that food can put a strain on your garbage disposal. Remember that coffee grounds, hard fruit rinds, grease, and potato skins should go in the compost or trash—not the disposal. Also, run cold water through your disposal for 30 seconds before and after each use to help clear food from the pipes.

3. Septic Tank Problems

Summer thunderstorms and heavy rains can wreak havoc on your septic system. If your system is full, schedule septic pumping before an impending big storm. To avoid septic tank problems, make sure your the covers and inspection ports are sealed tight. Excessive rain can get into pipes through cracks and cause the sewer line to back up. If you see any signs of problems, such as water from the toilet backing up into your bathtub, call a septic repair professional as soon as possible. Even without issues, the state of Minnesota requires septic checks every three years by law.

4. Sprinkler System Damage

Everyone loves having a green lawn all summer long, but you need to make sure your sprinkler system is operating correctly. Before the watering season, check your sprinkler heads and clean them if necessary. Also, keep an eye on the system during your first watering session. Pipe leaks and drainage problems can flood your grass and deliver the runoff water into your foundation.

5. Slow Shower Drains

A trip to the beach can lead to plumbing problems back at home. When kids rinse off in the shower after a beach trip, sand and shells can block the drain. Make sure your kids rinse off at the beach rather than waiting until they get home. Clean the drain cover more regularly in the summer to avoid clogs and other issues.

 

If you are experiencing plumbing issues or septic tank problems, contact the professionals at B's Pumping Service. Serving Dakota County, MN, their technicians can do everything from clearing blocked toilets to septic drain field repairs. This licensed, bonded, and insured company uses their expertise and the latest sewer camera technology to make sure your job is done right. Call (952) 469-2573 or visit their website to learn more about their services.