Summer in Colorado is beautiful, featuring sunny days, dry heat, and sometimes sudden thunderstorms. For homeowners in Boulder, however, these seasonal changes involve more than just outdoor fun. Did you know that hot summer weather can significantly impact your home’s plumbing system? From increased water usage to overworked water heaters, your plumbing works harder during the warmer months.
This guide will outline how summer heat affects your plumbing, the signs you should watch out for, and actionable tips to prevent costly repairs down the line.
1. Higher Water Usage During Summer Months
Summer activities like gardening, lawn watering, and outdoor festivities mean your plumbing system sees a lot more action during this time of year. Families with kids and vacation rentals also increase water usage through additional showers and loads of laundry.
Increased water usage leads to greater wear and tear on pipes, sewer lines, and water heaters. This can be problematic if your home has older plumbing or hasn’t had a recent inspection.
Pro Tip: Monitor your water bill closely. If you see an unusual spike, it could indicate hidden leaks caused by the increased summer demand.
2. Dry Heat and Ground Movement Risks
Colorado’s dry climate, combined with clay-heavy soils, presents a unique problem during the hotter months. The heat can cause the soil around your home to expand and contract. Over time, this ground movement puts pressure on underground pipes, leading to cracks or even bursts. This issue is especially prevalent in older neighborhoods with aging plumbing systems.
If you notice signs of ground shifting, such as uneven lawn surfaces or cracks in your driveway, it could indicate trouble below ground.
3. Summer Storms and Flooding
Colorado summers frequently feature sudden thunderstorms that can lead to flash floods. Heavy rain can overwhelm drainage systems, causing water to back up into your home’s plumbing. Clogged gutters only worsen the problem, directing water toward your foundation.
Another sneaky culprit? Tree roots. During summer, roots grow aggressively in search of water and can infiltrate pipes, causing blockages or even permanent damage to your sewer lines.
Action Steps:
- Clear gutters regularly to prevent water pooling.
- Inspect your outdoor drains after storms to check for proper flow.
- Be mindful of tree placement when planting in your yard.
4. Water Heater Strain From Peak Demand
While many associate water heater strain with colder months, summer can be equally demanding for this essential appliance. Frequent showers, extra laundry, and more guests mean your water heater works overtime. Additionally, Colorado’s high mineral content in the water can cause sediment buildup in the tank, reducing its efficiency and longevity.
What You Can Do:
- Flush your water heater every 6–12 months to remove sediment.
- Lower the water heater temperature during summer usage to prevent unnecessary energy consumption.
- Call a professional plumber for an inspection to keep your water heater running smoothly.
5. Kitchen and Outdoor Plumbing Stress
Summer activities like grilling and food preparation often lead to clogged garbage disposals. Items like corn husks, melon rinds, and greasy residue aren’t disposal-friendly and can cause blockages. Similarly, outdoor hose bibs and irrigation systems face increased usage, which can lead to pressure-related leaks or damage.
Quick Fixes:
- Avoid putting hard-to-grind food down the disposal, and run cold water when using it.
- Inspect outdoor faucets and irrigation systems for leaks or strange noises.
- Tighten hose connections to prevent unnecessary water loss.
Signs Your Plumbing System Might Be Struggling
Not sure if the summer heat is impacting your plumbing? Watch for these common warning signs:
- Reduced water pressure in showers or faucets.
- Gurgling sounds in pipes or slow-draining sinks.
- Unexplained increases in water bills, which might hint at a leak.
- Foul odors or backed-up drains during or after storms.
Spotting these issues early can help prevent costly repairs. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a professional for an assessment.
Summer Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Boulder Homes
A little proactive maintenance goes a long way in keeping your plumbing system in top shape. Use this checklist to stay ahead of summer plumbing problems:
- Inspect irrigation systems and outdoor faucets for leaks.
- Schedule a water heater flush if it hasn’t been done recently.
- Clear gutters and outdoor drains regularly to prevent blockages.
- Avoid sending grease, fibrous foods, or other unsuitable items down the drain.
- Identify the main water shutoff valve in case of an emergency during flooding or storms.
Keep Your Plumbing Cool This Summer With Precision Plumbing
Your plumbing system may not be basking in the sun, but it feels the heat just as much as your lawn does. By understanding the risks and performing regular maintenance, you can avoid surprises like burst pipes, clogged drains, or overworked water heaters.
Need a helping hand? At Precision Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we are here to ensure your plumbing is ready to tackle the Boulder summer. Whether it’s an inspection, repair, or a much-needed maintenance service, we’ve got you covered.