6 Tips for Summer Plumbing Maintenance 

1. Protect Pipes From the Texas Heat

While the scorching heat in Sugar Land may be out of your control, there are still some steps you can take to protect your pipes. Exposed pipes are especially vulnerable as the sun beats down and need a layer of protection to reflect UV rays.

A few ways you can protect your pipes during the summer include:

• Add insulation around pipes to create a protective barrier.
• Paint the outside of PVC pipes to reduce heat exposure.

When pipes overheat, they expand and cause a drop in water pressure and are more likely to burst or spring leaks. Take the time to locate any outdoor pipes and exposed plumbing to give them the proper coverage through the hotter weather.

2. Avoid Clogged Drains & Sewer Lines

Drain and sewer clogs are not only annoying but can cause damage to your piping network if they aren't cleared properly. To avoid clogs, make sure nothing goes down the drain that will obstruct the flow of water and create a blockage.

Never put these items down the drain:

• "Flushable" wipes or "flushable" cat litter
• Paper towels, q-tips, or cotton balls
• Eggshells
• Coffee grounds
• Expandable foods like rice and pasta
• Food scraps or produce stickers
• Grease or paint
• Cleaning products

Keeping an eye on what goes down the drain is the easiest way to prevent clogs. For showers and bathtubs, using a drain trap is an easy way to catch hair before it has a chance to build up.

If you notice that water is draining slower than normal, the most effective way to find and clear the blockage is to call a professional plumber. DIY cleaning chemicals can damage your pipes and move the blockage down further without actually clearing it. Don't wait for sewage to start backing up before you call for help!

3. Install a Water Softener & Filtration System

Summer sports, hot temperatures, and humid weather mean staying hydrated during the Sugar Land summer is more important than ever. Installing water treatment systems can not only protect your pipes from sediment buildup but offer cleaner, tastier drinking water.

Whole-home water filtration removes impurities so you can cut back on buying plastic water bottles and enjoy a refreshing drink right from the tap. Cutting down on water waste while kids are in and out of the house is a great way to save time and hassle during the busy summer.

4. Maintain Your Water Heater

With family visiting and kids soaking up the last of the summer freedom with friends, your water heater gets a workout in the summer. Making sure there is enough hot water and adequate pressure to go around will save you a headache.

If you notice any groaning or gurgling noises, uneven water pressure across rooms, or if the water isn't heating as it should, you may want to consult with a professional plumber. They will be able to test the components to find the cause of the trouble and repair the water heater so you can get back to business.

5. Keep Gutters & Downspouts Clear

You may not think of gutters and downspouts when you think of plumbing, but they are still an important thing to clean in the summertime. Heavy rain from storms, leaves, branches, and debris can clog gutters and prevent water from moving properly away from your home.

If the water has nowhere to go, you may find it seeping into your walls and causing damage. Take time to ensure there are no obstructions in the gutter and nothing clogging the downspout that would cause water to back up.

6. Schedule Routine Plumbing Inspections

Even when your plumbing system seems to be working fine, pinhole leaks, faulty connections, and slow drains may be brewing trouble. On average, professional plumbing inspections should be scheduled about every two years. If you're marking off your summer plumbing checklist and have any concerns, though, it never hurts to get a second opinion.

You should schedule an inspection if:

• Your water bills have unexpectedly gone up, which may be a sign of a leak.
• You hear a rattling sound coming from the pipes.
• The water pressure is too low or uneven across different taps.
• Water is slow to drain in sinks, toilets, or bathtubs.

Professional plumber inspections can save you money by preventing costly repairs and replacements. Catching small problems early on will help you have a relaxing summer free from water leaks and appliance breakdowns.