Summer is a great time of year with all the fun and yes, summer comes with its share of enjoyed responsibly.  According to your expert Northern California plumber, staying on top of your residential plumbing is a must. Aside from the excitement it brings, summer can be a major downer if a plumbing related problem occurs. That is why preventative measures are so important.  So, in the summer, what can you do to ensure the safety and well-being of your home’s plumbing?

Cookout Cleanup

Frequent cookouts during summer can mean hard times for your garbage disposal if you put certain foods down the drain. Cornhusks, fruit and vegetable peels, and grease, for instance, can damage your disposal blades and clog your sink. Avoid putting any stringy or hard foods in the disposal; throw them away instead. Do the same for fats, oils, and grease, which can solidify in pipes and lead to clogs.

Sewer Disruption

Heavy rainfall and tree roots can disturb your sewer lines, leading to backups. Spring and summer showers may be to blame, as well as tree roots that feed on nutrients within your pipes and cause clogs. If you notice any signs of a backup occurring, call for your most referred northern California plumber right away. You can also take preventative measures by having your sewer line inspected and cleaned before problems occur.

Washing with Care

Your washing machine may get extra use in the summer from more outdoor activities that leave clothes dirty. It’s a good idea to check your washing machine hoses regularly for any cracks or leaks. If hoses are damaged, replace them. Also make sure to tighten any loose fittings.

PLUMBING TRADE SECRETS:  If you and your family are planning a lengthy summer vacation, more than a week, then you should consider cutting off your home’s water meter. According to your local northern California plumber,  it is a safe move. If you went on vacation, neglected to cut off your meter, and a pipe busted in your home, then you would have quite the flood upon your return.