Summer is finally here – and that means backyard barbecues, pool parties, and quality time with family and friends. At Guest Plumbing and HVAC, we know that when it comes to outdoor entertaining, your plumbing needs to work just as hard as your grill. That’s why we’ve put together a few simple tips to help homeowners get their outdoor plumbing in top shape before the party starts.
1. Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs
Let’s start with the basics. After a long winter, outdoor faucets can develop leaks or cracks—especially if they weren’t properly winterized. Turn each faucet on and off to check for drips, low water pressure, or signs of damage. If anything seems off, it might be time to replace washers or upgrade to a frost-free model.
2. Test Outdoor Sinks and Wet Bars
If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor kitchen or bar, give those fixtures some attention, too. Run the water and watch for slow drains or signs of a clog. Clean out aerators to remove mineral buildup, and make sure everything is draining properly. A little maintenance now means fewer headaches when you’re serving up drinks or prepping food outside.
3. Check Your Sprinkler or Irrigation System
Proper lawn care keeps your backyard looking sharp—but a misaligned sprinkler head can spray more guests than grass. Turn on your irrigation system and do a quick walk-through. Look for broken heads, uneven spray patterns, or leaks. Adjust and repair as needed so your landscape (and your guests) stay cool and comfortable.
4. Get Outdoor Showers Ready
Outdoor showers are a fantastic summer feature, especially for pool owners. Make sure the fixtures are clean and rust-free, drains are clear, and water flows without any issues. If your outdoor shower hasn’t been used in a while, run it for a few minutes to flush out the system.
5. Clean Out Patio and Pool Drains
Debris like leaves, dirt, or even last year’s forgotten toys can block outdoor drains. Clearing them ensures that water flows away from your entertainment space—especially during those surprise summer storms. Run water from a garden hose to test drainage and look for pooling around walkways or patios.
6. Tidy Up with a Hose Reel or Organizer
Keeping hoses off the ground isn’t just about looks—it also helps prevent tripping hazards and damage. A sturdy, retractable hose reel or wall-mounted hook keeps things organized and safe for guests.
7. Thinking About an Upgrade?
If you entertain often, you might want to take things up a notch. Adding a dedicated outdoor sink, plumbing in a gas line for your BBQ, or even installing a full outdoor kitchen can make summer hosting easier and more enjoyable. Just be sure to work with licensed professionals (like us!) to ensure it’s done safely and up to code.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your outdoor plumbing is one of those things that’s easy to overlook—but it makes a big difference when it’s time to entertain. At Guest Plumbing and HVAC, we’re here to help you make the most of the season. Whether you need repairs, an inspection, or are ready for that backyard upgrade, we’re just a phone call away.
Let’s make this summer the best one yet—without the plumbing surprises.
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