Essential Summer Plumbing Tips for Your Birmingham Home

As summer heats up in Birmingham, it’s essential to ensure that your home’s plumbing system is in top condition. The high temperatures can add stress to your plumbing, potentially causing issues that disrupt your comfort. To help you keep your home running smoothly, Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing offers these crucial summer plumbing maintenance tips.

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Sprinkler System Birmingham’s hot summers mean your lawn and garden need extra watering. Ensure your sprinkler system works correctly by checking for leaks, broken sprinkler heads, and proper water pressure. A malfunctioning sprinkler system can waste water and increase your utility bills. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues and keep your lawn lush and green.
2. Check for Leaks Summer is an excellent time to inspect your home for leaks. Check faucets, showerheads, and pipes for any signs of dripping or pooling water. Even small leaks can lead to significant water waste and higher bills. If you notice any leaks, address them promptly. Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing offers regular plumbing specials, making it an ideal time to fix those pesky leaks.
3. Clean Your Drains With increased outdoor activities and gatherings, your drains may see more use during the summer months. Prevent clogs by regularly cleaning your drains. Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break down any buildup, followed by hot water to flush it out. For more stubborn clogs, consider Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing’s drain clearing service, which includes a camera inspection to ensure your pipes are clear.
4. Inspect Your Water Heater Your water heater works year-round, but summer is a good time to give it some attention. Check for any signs of rust, leaks, or unusual noises. Flushing the tank can remove sediment buildup, improving efficiency and extending the life of your water heater. If your water heater shows signs of wear, it might be time to consider a replacement.
5. Test Your Sump Pump Summer storms can bring heavy rainfall, leading to basement flooding if your sump pump isn’t working correctly. Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should activate and remove the water quickly. If it doesn’t, you may need a professional inspection or repair.
6. Protect Your Pipes Birmingham’s summer heat can cause pipes to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks or bursts. Insulate exposed pipes to protect them from temperature fluctuations. This simple step can prevent costly repairs and water damage.
7. Be Mindful of What You Flush With more people at home during the summer, it’s essential to remind everyone about proper flushing habits. Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Items like wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products can cause significant clogs and damage to your plumbing system.
8. Schedule a Professional Inspection While DIY maintenance is essential, a professional inspection can catch issues you might miss. The licensed professionals at Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can perform a thorough inspection of your plumbing system, ensuring everything is in optimal condition. With our Peace of Mind Guarantee, you can trust that our team has undergone extensive background checks and is committed to providing top-notch service.
9. Conserve Water Birmingham often faces water restrictions during the summer months. Conserve water by fixing leaks promptly, using water-efficient fixtures, and being mindful of your water usage. Simple steps like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or taking shorter showers can make a significant difference.
10. Prepare for Vacation If you’re planning a summer vacation, take steps to protect your plumbing while you’re away. Turn off the main water supply to prevent potential leaks or flooding. Additionally, set your water heater to vacation mode to save energy.

Trust Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for All Your Plumbing Needs Maintaining your plumbing system during the summer is essential for a comfortable and efficient home. By following these tips, you can prevent common plumbing issues and enjoy a worry-free summer. If you need professional assistance, Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is here to help. With our extensive experience and commitment to customer satisfaction, we are Birmingham’s trusted plumbing experts.

Don’t wait for a plumbing emergency to strike. Contact Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today at (205) 289-3413 to schedule a service, or request an appointment online to take advantage of our special plumbing offers. Ensure your home is ready for the summer heat with the help of our skilled professionals. Call us now and experience the Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing difference!