Ohio summers are wonderful for backyard barbecues, pool days, and gardening. But to enjoy these activities without water woes, it’s crucial to prepare your outdoor plumbing for the hot weather ahead. Think of it like preparing your furnace, heat pump, and heating maintenance in winter; preventative action goes a long way. 

Here are some summer plumbing tips to ensure a leak-free summer and avoid unnecessary water bills.

Inspect and Repair Hoses

Hoses are the backbone of your summer outdoor chores; they keep your lawn green, your car sparkling, and (let’s be honest) they’re the best way to cool down on a hot day. But leaks and damage happen, so start your summer prep with a good hose check.

• Examine Closely: Lay your hoses out straight and inspect every inch. Look for cracks, bulges, holes, or worn spots. Pay special attention to the couplings (the parts that connect to the faucet), looking for leaks or damage.
• Fix, Patch, or Ditch: Small cracks or holes might be fixable with a hose repair kit; you’ll find these at any hardware store. For major damage or if your hose is old and brittle, it’s time for a replacement to avoid a mid-water blowout!
• Tighten Up Those Connections. Make sure the couplings are screwed on tightly at both the faucet end and the hose end. Rubber washers at the connection points can create a watertight seal and prevent frustrating drips.

Take Care of Your Sprinkler System

An efficiently functioning sprinkler system can make the difference between a vibrant summer lawn and a dry, brown one. Here’s your maintenance checklist:

• Check Sprinkler Heads: Ensure they’re not blocked by debris and rotate freely.
• Clean Filters: Filters get clogged; clean them out for optimal water flow.
• Adjust the Timer: Water requirements change with the weather; adjust your timer accordingly to avoid overwatering. Look for smart timers with weather-based adjustments.
• Professional Inspection: If you have a complex system, consider a professional inspection for any hidden leaks or damage.

Outdoor Faucets: Don’t Forget These!

Your outdoor faucets (also called hose bibs or spigots) are the stars of outdoor plumbing. A leaky faucet can waste a surprising amount of water.

• Tighten It Up: If the faucet drips, try tightening the packing nut. It’s located under the handle and helps create a seal.
• Replace Washers: If tightening doesn’t help, it may be time to replace the washer. This is a simple DIY fix.
• Frost-Free Faucets: These are designed for Ohio winters. If you have one, make sure it’s fully drained to prevent internal damage.

Additional Summer Plumbing Tips

While hoses and sprinklers get a lot of focus, here are a few more things to keep in mind for a water-efficient summer:

• Pool Plumbing: Pool owners should check all pumps, filters, and lines for leaks or damage. This prevents bigger problems (and expensive repairs) later.
• Consider Smart Tech: Upgrading to smart hose timers or leak detectors can help conserve water and catch problems early.

By following these simple summer plumbing tips, you’ll be set to enjoy a leak-free and water-wise summer in Ohio. A little preparation goes a long way toward avoiding water damage and helping your home run efficiently, leaving you ready for what matters most: backyard fun!

 

How Plumbing 911 Can Help

Taking care of your outdoor plumbing doesn’t have to be a hassle. If you discover leaks you can’t tackle yourself or want a professional assessment to head off any summer surprises, the experts at Plumbing 911 are here to help. We offer full-service plumbing solutions for homes and businesses across Cuyahoga (East and West), Medina, Summit, Stark, Lake, and Geauga counties. Get your free inspection today! Call us at 1-866-720-0911, schedule an appointment online or email us!