As the weather begins to warm up in the UK, it's important to check that your plumbing is prepared for the change in temperature.
There are several steps that homeowners can take to ensure that their plumbing system is functioning efficiently and effectively during the warmer months.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the key tasks that should be undertaken to prepare your plumbing for the summer heat.
One of the first things that homeowners should do is check their plumbing system for any leaks or damage.
Look for signs of water damage, such as damp patches on walls, ceilings or floors, and listen for any unusual sounds coming from your pipes or appliances. As the weather warms up, you may even start to notice increased musty smells of damp or mould.
If you do find a leak, it's important to address it immediately, as even a small leak can lead to significant water damage over time. Acting quickly can help avoid a future plumbing emergency.
Spring is a time when many homeowners will tackle outdoor cleaning and maintenance tasks, including cleaning out the gutters. Over the winter months, debris such as leaves, twigs, and branches can accumulate in your gutters, causing them to become blocked.
This can lead to water damage to your home, as water may overflow and damage your roof, walls or foundation.
It's important to clear your gutters and downspouts of any debris so that water is able to flow freely away from your home. So make sure that when the weather gets nicer, and you actually feel like doing tasks outside, you clear the build up accumulated over winter. Especially before those rainy summer storms catch you out.
And don’t worry, you should only have to do this once a year – unless you are surrounded by lots of trees or see a lot of rain and wind.
After the colder temperatures of winter, it's important to check that your outdoor taps are functioning correctly.
Turn the taps on and off to make sure that they are not leaking, and check for signs of damage or wear and tear. If you do find any issues, it's important to address them before the summertime, as you will likely be using your outdoor taps more frequently.
Your water heater (if you have one) works hard throughout the year, and it's important to ensure that it is functioning correctly as you head into the warmer months.
Check your water heater for any signs of damage, such as leaks or corrosion, and make sure that it is set to the correct temperature. It's also a good idea to flush your water heater to remove any sediment or build up that may have accumulated over the winter months.
And if you don’t have a water heater, the summer is also a good time to schedule a boiler service. This will make sure it’s ready for the coming winter.
Sump pumps are designed to prevent water damage to your home by removing excess water from your basement areas. Most homes in the UK don’t tend to have basement areas but if you’re one of the few that do, and you have a sump pump in your home, it's important to inspect it to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit, and make sure that it is pumping water away from your home. If your sump pump is not functioning correctly, it's important to address the issue before the summer months, as heavy rainfall may lead to flooding and water damage.
Tree and plant roots can cause significant damage to your drainage system, particularly during the warmer months when things are in full bloom.
As trees grow, their roots can penetrate your pipes, causing them to crack or break. If you have trees or plants on your property, it's important to have your plumbing system checked for any signs of damage. This can help to prevent costly repairs in the future.
We offer CCTV drain inspections to accurately diagnose these kinds of issues.
If you live in an area with hard water, you may want to consider installing a water softener. Hard water can cause damage to your plumbing system over time, as mineral deposits can build up in your pipes and appliances.
A water softener can help to remove these minerals, improving the efficiency and lifespan of your plumbing system. Softening water can also help to improve hair and skin issues, and as you may be using more water over the summer for post-sweat showers and so on, it’s a good time to think of getting a softener.
Finally, it's always a good idea to schedule a plumbing inspection if you think you need it or have moved into a new property.
Contact us and we can send out a local plumber who can inspect your pipes, drains, and other plumbing fixtures to identify any potential issues before they become more significant problems.
Our experts can also make recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades that can improve the efficiency of your plumbing system.
In conclusion, preparing your plumbing for changing seasons is an essential task that can prevent costly damage to your home.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your plumbing is in good condition and ready to handle the demands of the spring and summer seasons.
Remember, if you encounter any plumbing issues, you can always call us on 0330 108 1167. We’re available 24/7 and specialise in 7 different trades, from plumbing to pest control.