At Guest Plumbing and HVAC, we know summer in Hamilton means BBQs, backyard fun, and family gatherings—but it can also bring an unexpected wave of plumbing issues. With higher water usage, unpredictable storms, and more wear and tear on your systems, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to run into problems when they least expect them.
Let’s walk through some of the most common summer plumbing problems in Hamilton—and how to keep them from disrupting your season.
1. Increased Water Usage
As the temperature rises, so does water demand. Between filling up pools, running sprinklers, and taking extra showers, your plumbing system works overtime during the summer.
What you can do:
- Be mindful of when and how often water is being used.
- Stagger appliance use to avoid pressure dips.
- Install water-efficient fixtures to ease the strain on your pipes and reduce your water bill.
2. Clogged Drains
More time outdoors often means more dirt, sand, and food scraps making their way into your drains—especially after cookouts or family events.
How to prevent it:
- Use drain strainers in kitchen and bathroom sinks.
- Avoid rinsing greasy pans or food waste down the drain.
- Run hot water and a bit of dish soap down the sink after heavy use.
3. Sewer Line Backups
Hamilton’s summer storms can overwhelm aging sewer lines. In addition, tree roots looking for moisture may grow into underground pipes and create blockages.
Stay ahead of it:
- Schedule an annual inspection to check for cracks or root intrusion.
- If you don’t already have a backwater valve installed, consider it—it can prevent wastewater from backing up into your home.
4. Sprinkler System Leaks
Summer lawn care is great for curb appeal, but mowing and landscaping can damage sprinkler heads and underground lines.
What to look for:
- Unusually soggy patches in the lawn or low water pressure in the system.
- Visibly cracked or broken sprinkler heads.
- Pro tip: Do a quick walk-through of your yard each month to spot potential issues early.
5. Washing Machine Overload
With summer activities come more dirty clothes—from swimsuits to sports uniforms. That extra laundry can put a strain on your washing machine and its plumbing connections.
Best practices:
- Avoid overloading the machine.
- Check hoses for cracks or bulging and replace any that look worn.
- Leave space behind the machine to prevent kinks in the hoses.
6. Water Heater Strain
If you’re hosting guests this summer, your water heater might be working harder than usual.
What you can do:
- Lower the temperature slightly (around 120°F or 49°C) for efficiency and safety.
- Flush the tank to remove any sediment buildup that can reduce performance.
- If your unit is nearing the end of its lifespan (8–12 years), it might be time to consider a replacement.
7. Outdoor Hose Bib Damage
Hose bibs (outdoor faucets) take a lot of use in the summer—and if they weren’t winterized properly, they may have weakened or cracked.
How to check:
- Turn on the hose and look for leaks at the bib or along the pipe inside the wall.
- Replace washers or connections if needed, and shut off the valve when not in use.
Know When to Call a Professional
Some summer plumbing issues are easy to manage with a little prevention. Others—like sewer backups, underground leaks, or water heater problems—are best left to the professionals.
At Guest Plumbing and HVAC, we’re here to help Hamilton homeowners enjoy a stress-free summer. Whether you need a quick repair, seasonal inspection, or advice on water-saving upgrades, our licensed plumbers are just a call away.
Let’s Keep Things Flowing Smoothly This Summer
Being proactive about your plumbing now can save you from major headaches later. If something doesn’t seem right—or if it’s just been a while since your last plumbing checkup—give us a call.
📞 905-745-1963
📧 info@guestplumbing.com
We’re happy to help you stay cool, comfortable, and worry-free all summer long.
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