Summer is a time for barbecues, beach days, and fun in the sun. However, all of those popular activities can also lead to issues for your home’s plumbing system. To keep your pipes and fixtures in the best possible condition throughout this season and beyond, you should know the signs of a potential problem.

What Plumbing Issues Are Most Common During Summer?

1. Backflow

Backflow occurs when the water in your plumbing system flows in the opposite direction. In this instance, water from your toilets, laundry, or dishwasher can lead to contamination. Dramatic water pressure changes cause backflow, so it is common in summer if there’s a strain on your municipal water supply due to hydrant usage or sprinkler systems.

2. Clogged Disposals

Your garbage disposal can quickly get clogged during summer thanks to popular cookout foods. For example, hard items such as corn cobs will damage the blades, and starchy foods like potato peels and hot dog buns form a paste-like substance that leads to clogs.

3. Draining Issues

Your showers, sinks, and drains also experience issues in the summer. After a day at the beach or doing work in the garden, all of that sand and dirt that you wash off will end up in your drains and get stuck. The collected dirt leads to backups, clogs, and slow-moving drains.

4. Overused Pipes

Pipes tend to get substantial use in the summer due to extra showers, laundry, and sprinkler systems. That overuse puts stress on the system that leads to leaks, which require pipe repair or replacement.

If you’re experiencing any of these plumbing issues, call Norblom Plumbing in Saint Paul, MN. In business since 1923, the licensed and bonded plumber serves customers throughout the Twin Cities area with a variety of services, including backflow testing, water heater installation, and sump pump service. They also offer commercial plumbing services to businesses throughout the area. View a full list of residential plumbing services on the company’s website, or call (612) 827-4033 to request assistance.