Summers in New England are filled with heat waves, humidity, thunderstorms and bugs that can all affect your household. As a homeowner, or mindful tenant, it’s important, and useful, to know how to prevent any mishaps that could occur as your water and cooling systems work tirelessly. Here at Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling we want to help you as best we can with our top summer plumbing tips.
- Check Sprinkler Systems
Don’t waste water from a broken sprinkler system, check your sprinkler heads to make sure there are no leaks. It is recommended that you clean the heads before the spring and summer season each year. Be mindful not to run over your sprinkler heads while mowing the lawn as well!
- Get to Know the Main Water Valve
It’s important to know where the main water valve is in your house and how to work it in case any issues with your water system arise. To prevent any mishaps while you’re on summer vacation or a long weekend trip, turn off the water via the main water valve. This can be done by turning the wheel to the right or, if it’s a lever, turn it until it is perpendicular to the pipe it’s connected to. However, if you need the water to still be running for an automated sprinkler system or swimming pool, do not turn off the water and instead, have someone routinely check up on your water system.
- Clear the Gutters
Clear the gutters of any leaves, twigs or debris to make sure the water flows away from your house in cases of rain or thunderstorms. It may seem like an unusual summer plumbing tip, but it helps keep your foundation dry.
- Save Water, Save Money
Not only is conserving water good for the environment, but it helps your wallet too. A few simple tips can save you up to $35 on your electric or gas bill. Water your lawn in the early morning or evening and avoid watering it on windy days. Turn the water off while brushing your teeth. Or wash your car at a car wash, where recycled water is used. A few of these changes can help the environment and shed some money off your bills.
- Keep an Eye on the Washer
With kids being out of school, playing outside, going to camp or swimming, your washer is being heavily relied on. Take it easy on your washing machine this summer with these tips. Make sure you’re giving your washer a break between loads of laundry to prevent excess stress on the machine. Your washing machine hose should be replaced every 3 years and checked for any damage, kinks or tears regularly. We want to ensure your washer is ready to tackle your child’s caked-on mud or chlorine-coated clothing at anytime.
- Protect the Garbage Disposal
Summer is filled with gatherings and cookouts between family, friends, coworkers and neighbors. As the food and conversation start flowing it may seem like a good idea to throw whatever you’d like down your garbage disposal, but this could do more harm than good. Avoid putting grease or used cooking oils down the sink after your barbeques – as they can clog the pipes and damage the garbage disposal. Produce such as corn and watermelon can damage the blades of the disposal or create clogs. Avoid cookout disasters with these helpful tips.
- Assess the Sweaty Pipes
Condensation is normal to see on pipes and other utilities during hot, summer months, but at what point should it be cause for concern? Condensation occurs when cold water is running or has just been run, but if it is constant it could mean there is a leak. If the condensation becomes a problem, look for leaks on faucets or toilets, invest in insulation for your pipes if you want to eliminate this condensation.
- Prevent Problems – Contact a Professional
If any of the above summer plumbing tips seem out of your realm, call the experts at Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to set up an appointment today! We can handle any of the above summer plumbing hacks and much more.
About Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling,
Founded over 40 years ago, Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is family-owned and operated by the Daigle family. We are proud to provide quality, dependable plumbing, heating, and cooling services for our customers in Derry, NH, and the surrounding areas. Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is your partner for all your plumbing, heating, and cooling needs. Call us today at 603-434-6353 for a free estimate.
