Summertime in Fairfield, CT, brings warm weather, outdoor activities, and plenty of opportunities for gatherings with family and friends. While you won’t have to deal with frozen pipes during this season, summer can present its unique plumbing challenges. The good news is that most of these issues can be prevented with a little extra care and attention. Below, we’ll cover three common summer plumbing problems and how you can avoid them.
Problem #1 – Clogged or Broken Garbage Disposal
Summer means more cookouts, barbecues, and fresh seasonal produce. With all the extra food preparation and cleanup, your garbage disposal is likely to see increased use. If not handled properly, it can become clogged or even break down.
What Causes Garbage Disposal Issues?
Garbage disposals are designed to handle small food scraps, but certain items can cause damage or blockages. Common culprits include:
- Corn cobs and husks – Fibrous husks can tangle around the blades, while cobs are too tough to grind properly.
- Watermelon rinds and hard fruit peels – These are too hard for the disposal’s blades to handle.
- Potatoes and potato peels – Starches in potatoes can turn into a thick paste, leading to clogs.
- Pasta and rice – These foods expand when exposed to water, which can create blockages in your pipes.
- Cooking oil and grease – These substances solidify as they cool, coating pipes and leading to stubborn clogs.
How to Prevent Garbage Disposal Problems
- Throw problem foods in the trash – Instead of putting fibrous, starchy, or greasy foods down the disposal, toss them in the garbage.
- Run plenty of water – Always run cold water while using the disposal and let it run for a few seconds afterward to flush out any remaining food particles.
- Use the disposal regularly – If a disposal sits unused for too long, it can develop buildup and odors. Running it regularly with a mix of ice cubes and citrus peels can help keep it fresh.
If your garbage disposal is clogged or making unusual noises, call Rick’s Plumbing Service, Inc. in Fairfield, CT, for expert repairs.
Problem #2 – Sprinkler Head Issues
Your lawn and garden rely on sprinklers to stay green and healthy during the summer months, but sprinkler systems can be prone to leaks and breakage if not properly maintained.
Common Sprinkler Problems
- Clogged sprinkler heads – Dirt, grass, and debris can block the nozzles, preventing proper water flow.
- Leaky or broken heads – Sprinkler heads can crack due to wear and tear, or they may get damaged by lawnmowers and foot traffic.
- Uneven watering – If certain areas of your lawn are receiving too much or too little water, there may be an issue with the sprinkler head alignment.
How to Prevent Sprinkler Issues
- Check your system before summer starts – Run your sprinklers to make sure all heads are working properly and adjust any that are misaligned.
- Clean clogged heads – Remove and rinse out sprinkler heads regularly to prevent blockages.
- Be mindful when mowing – Make sure sprinkler heads are fully retracted before mowing to avoid damage.
A small leak in your sprinkler system can waste a significant amount of water over time. If you notice water pooling in your yard or weak spray patterns, contact Rick’s Plumbing Service, Inc. for professional sprinkler system repair in Fairfield, CT.
Problem #3 – Clogged Toilets
Toilets are used more frequently during the summer, especially if you have kids home from school or guests visiting. This increased usage can lead to more frequent clogs and plumbing issues.
What Causes Toilet Clogs?
- Excessive toilet paper use – Using too much toilet paper can prevent proper flushing.
- Flushing non-flushable items – Wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products should never be flushed.
- Older plumbing systems – If your home has older pipes, they may be more prone to blockages.
How to Prevent Toilet Clogs
- Teach proper flushing habits – Make sure children understand how much toilet paper to use and remind them not to flush anything other than waste and toilet paper.
- Use a high-quality plunger – A flange plunger is the best tool for clearing tough clogs.
- Schedule routine plumbing inspections – If you experience frequent toilet backups, there may be an issue deeper in your plumbing system that requires professional attention.
If a clogged toilet is causing trouble in your home, Rick’s Plumbing Service, Inc. is here to help with fast and reliable plumbing services in Fairfield, CT.
Additional Summer Plumbing Tips
In addition to preventing these common problems, here are a few more plumbing tips to keep your home running smoothly this summer:
- Inspect outdoor hoses and faucets – Look for leaks or cracks that could waste water and drive up your bill.
- Check for sewer line issues – Tree roots tend to grow aggressively in the summer and can invade underground pipes, leading to backups.
- Be mindful of increased water usage – With kids home and more frequent showers, consider spreading out water usage throughout the day to avoid putting too much strain on your plumbing system.
Need a Reliable Plumber in Fairfield, CT? Call Rick’s Plumbing Service, Inc. Today!
Summer plumbing problems can quickly become a hassle if left unchecked, but with a little maintenance and the right precautions, you can keep your plumbing system in top shape. If you need expert plumbing repairs, maintenance, or inspections, the team at Rick’s Plumbing Service, Inc. is ready to help.
For prompt and professional plumbing service in Fairfield, CT, give us a call at 203-874-6629. We’re here to keep your plumbing running smoothly all summer long!