7 Summertime Plumbing Problems to Avoid

Our New Jersey summer weather means you’re likely spending more time at the beach and enjoying the sun. But the summertime can also increase the risk of certain plumbing problems.

Our Broadley’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning professionals are eager to step in and assist! We offer top solutions and can help optimize the efficiency of your entire Cape May home. We will leave your plumbing, heating, and cooling systems in great shape—give us a call to schedule service today.

Here are the most common plumbing problems we notice happening over the summer and what you can do to prevent them from happening:

1. Clogged Garbage Disposal
   Kids are out of school in the summer, spending more time at home. Plus, you will likely have more guests over for parties and get-togethers, which means you will be cooking more food—and using your garbage disposal more often.
   
   Reduce the risk of a garbage disposal clog. Be cautious about what food you leave in your sink for the garbage disposal. Avoid placing bones, eggshells, coffee grounds, pasta, and hard and expandable foods. Place these types of foods directly into the garbage can instead. Never put paint, glass, or plastic down your garbage disposal.
   
   Using your garbage disposal as designed prevents clogs, but even with precautions, your garbage disposal can malfunction. Know our Broadley’s professionals are ready to help whenever you need us!
2. Clogged Toilets
   A clogged toilet is an inconvenience that could happen during any time of the year, but with more people inside your home over the summer, it increases the risk.
   
   Awareness is the best way to prevent a toilet clog. Understand what can and cannot go down the toilet. Opt for thinner rolls of toilet paper and never flush wipes or foreign objects down the toilet.
3. Clogged Shower Drains
   Whether you have been outside in the heat in your backyard or are returning home after a long day at the beach, a shower is a good idea to keep yourself feeling clean and cool—but you will want to be careful you don’t track in dirt or sand.
   
   Dirt and sand can easily clog your shower drains, resulting in slower drains and the risk of a complete sewer problem. Try brushing off as much dirt or sand as possible or rinsing off outside with a hose before going inside your home.
4. Shower and Fixture Wear and Tear
   It gets pretty hot outside here in Cape May over the summer, which means you will likely drink and use more water. Not only will your shower be at risk of clogging—but it will also face more wear and tear.
   
   According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average household in America uses 84 gallons of water each day—but you can use at least 20 percent less when you install more efficient water fixtures and appliances.
   
   Stay on track with cleaning your shower regularly. If any fixtures are damaged, opt for a repair. You can even turn to our professionals for an inspection to be sure your shower and fixtures are in good shape and well-equipped for frequent use. Keep your shower operating as efficiently as possible and help support its full service life.
   
5. Sewer Line Backup
   A summer storm can cause more than just inconvenience, power outages, and flooding—it can also cause damage to your sewer line. 
   
   Avoid planting near your sewer line to prevent tree branches from impacting your pipes. Be sure to schedule routine plumbing maintenance visits with our Broadley’s professionals to reduce the risk of clogs and ensure the proper health of your entire plumbing system.
   
6. Faulty Water Heater
   When was the last time you scheduled a company to flush your tank and remove unwanted sediment? Keep up with water heater maintenance throughout the year and turn to our professionals for help when you hear unusual noise or are concerned your hot water has gone out.
   
7. Outdoor Spigot and/or Sprinkler Issues
   You water your garden and lawn more frequently over the summer than at any other time of the year. Since you use your sprinkler, hose, and spigot more often, you could be at greater risk of running into trouble. If you believe there is an issue, call us and leave it to the professionals.
   
   Prevent problems before they start by checking your hose, spigots, and sprinkler system for any signs of damage. Have any issues addressed and faulty parts replaced.

Our Plumbing Professionals Can Address Your Concerns This Summer

Keep your Cape May, NJ, home’s plumbing systems in top shape with our Broadley’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning professionals. We are happy to help transform your home and keep all systems working as efficiently as possible. Call us at 609-390-3907 or request service online.