With temperatures in the triple-digits, there is no doubt that summer is officially here. And, with the summer season comes a much busier life! Luckily, all of the business is in doing things that are fun. Once school is out and the temperatures increase, it is time to hang out as a family and spend quality time with loved ones.

Things, like taking family vacations and spending time outside, are all reserved for the warmer summer weather. But, with all of this extra activity comes time away from your home – and, your plumbing system.

It is important to be thoughtful of taking care of your plumbing system – even when you are away from your house. These tips are designed to help:

• If you are going to be away from your home for several days, make sure to turn your water heater down so you can save energy.
• Be aware of how old your water heater is. Most tanks only last for around eight to eleven years. If your water heater is anywhere in this timespan, it is a good idea to have it inspected. And, especially if you’re going to be going out of town.
• After the cookout, make sure you don’t put corn cobs, watermelon rinds, steak bones, or any other foods that could be damaging to your garbage disposal.
• Make sure that your sprinkler system is properly maintained and that it is on the proper schedule during the time you are away from your home.
• Check the hoses and filters of your washing machine after each load. The summertime is notorious for being hard on your washing machine because of the extra laundry and the type of laundry that you wash.

If you are going to be away from your home this summer, make sure to follow these tips for keeping your plumbing system working properly. Coming home to a plumbing disaster will quickly bring your summer fun to a halt.

And, if you are going to take a “staycation” this summer, keep your plumbing system working properly by taking good care of it and being aware of how the extra use this summer can break it down faster.