Maintenance check points on your plumbing this summer

By Terry Leamon, My Maricopa Plumber

Summer is a great time to encourage homeowners to perform a maintenance check on their plumbing.

Water usage soars during the summer months from heat and summertime activities. As they play and swim, many

families will find themselves with a few extra loads of laundry per week and maybe a few extra showers.

Homeowners can start the season off right with a quick check throughout the home and property to conserve water and avoid a hefty repair bill.

In the Home

Check washing machine hoses for bulges, leaks and cracks. Washing machine hoses should be replaced every three years.

Be sure your washing machine is at least four inches from the wall, so hoses won’t kink and damage.

Do a thorough cleaning on your dryer lint trap regularly to avoid buildup.

Don’t send grease, fats or food down the drain. When washing foods like corn, be sure the strings don’t go down the drain and clog your pipes.

Heat and humidity will cause ducts to create condensation, which can easily back up drains if they are not clear. Check for leaks and condensation on your pipes regularly.

Clean up your garbage disposal by placing a cup of ice inside. Then, while running cold water, turn on the unit. Repeat a few times to ensure it’s clean. Then place a capful of vegetable oil down the disposal, which will act as a natural lubricant.

Outdoors

Inspect hoses and outdoor faucets for leaks and cracks.

Don’t just turn off the hose nozzle; turn it off at the connection. A leaky hose could burst under pressure if water is still pumping, causing water loss and ruining your equipment.

Set up a rainwater barrel to collect water for your plants.  This not only helps conserve water for the environment, but also will help you save money on your water bill.

Extended Trips

Going away for a while? Turn off the water and turn down the temperature. This will save energy while you’re away and in the event of a leak or break, prevent a bigger mess from occurring.