Summer Plumbing Problems You Didn’t See Coming

April 22, 2025

Summer is a sunshine season, vacation time, and backyard barbecue time—but it’s also a season when surprise plumbing issues can catch homeowners off guard. Although most homeowners think of winter as the time when things go wrong with their plumbing, summer has its share of challenges that can impact your home’s plumbing system in significant ways.

From added water consumption to problems brought on by outdoor recreation, your fixtures and pipes are under more stress than you realize. To assist you in preventing seasonal stress, we’re shining a light on some of the most prevalent summer plumbing issues you didn’t anticipate—and providing wise summer plumbing tips and advice to keep things running smoothly.

1. Clogged Garbage Disposals due to Summer Feasts

Summer brings more fresh fruits, vegetables, barbecues, and family gatherings, which translates to more food waste going down the drain. It’s too bad your garbage disposal can’t handle everything you feed it.

Corn husks, watermelon rinds, grease, bones, and fibrous vegetables such as celery can destroy your disposal and clog your kitchen sink.

What You Can Do:

• Don’t send large or fibrous food waste down the drain.
• Run cold water for 15 seconds after and before the disposal is used.
• Clean your disposal regularly with ice cubes and lemon peels to maintain freshness.

These small efforts can save you from the hassle of experiencing a mid-summer backup in the kitchen.

2. Sewer Line Backups

Sewer line problems are more prevalent in summer because of excessive rainstorms and maturing tree roots. Rainwater can fill up municipal systems and overflow into your home. In the meantime, tree roots are drawn to the water in your pipes and can infiltrate tiny cracks and cause extensive damage with time.

What You Can Do:

• Book a sewer line inspection before the peak rainy season.
• Steer clear of planting trees and large shrubs close to sewer lines.
• Install a backwater valve to keep sewage from backing up into your house.

This is probably the most forgotten summer plumbing tip, but it can save you thousands of dollars in damage.

3. Washing Machines Working Too Hard

With kids’ home on summer break, outdoor activities, and constant changes of clothes, your washing machine might be getting a workout. Overuse can lead to leaks, clogs, or even a breakdown if the machine is not correctly cared for.

What You Can Do:

• Don’t overload the machine—use recommended load sizes.
• Inspect hoses regularly for cracks or leaks.
• Make sure the machine is balanced and on a level surface.

If your laundry room is in the basement, a burst hose or leak can quickly result in flooding—another reason to be on the lookout during warmer weather.

4. Sprinkler System Leaks

Your sprinkler system can be a summer Most Valuable Player (MVP) for maintaining your lawn’s green color, but it can also be a plumber’s nightmare. Leaky sprinkler heads, underground leaks, or faulty control valves can waste water and increase utility bills.

What You Can Do:

• Check sprinkler heads every week for damage or misalignment.
• Look for wet patches or puddles in the yard—this might indicate a sneaky leak.
• Schedule routine maintenance or a system audit to confirm it’s running effectively.

If you’re dedicated to water conservation, including sprinkler system maintenance on your summer plumbing to-do list is necessary.

5. Outdoor Faucet and Hose Bib Problems

Outdoor fixtures such as hose bibs and faucets can cause issues in warmer weather. Even small leaks or drips will waste considerable water over the seasons—and may promote mold or mildew along your foundation.

What You Can Do:

• Make sure to look for leaks before opening up outdoor faucets for the first time this season.
• Install a hose bib cover when not being used to seal out insects and dirt.
• Turn off outdoor water valves when heading on vacation to avoid surprise leaks.

This is one of those summer plumbing tips that takes minutes but can prevent severe headaches.

6. Low Water Pressure

Have you ever cranked up the hose to irrigate your plants and see the water dripping out rather than gushing? Low water pressure is usually caused by higher usage in the area or a small leak somewhere in your plumbing system.

What You Can Do:

• Check fixtures and pipes for leaks.
• Clean aerators and showerheads to prevent mineral buildup.
• If the issue continues, have a plumber inspect for underground leaks.

This sneaky problem can remain undetected for weeks but can indicate a more significant issue if not addressed.

7. Vacation-Related Plumbing Surprises

Traveling out of town for a week or two? Don’t leave your plumbing system behind while you’re packing your suitcase. A minor leak can turn into a big problem if nobody’s around to detect it.

What You Can Do:

• Turn off the main water supply before you leave.
• Inspect all faucets, toilets, and appliances for drips beforehand.
• Ask a neighbor or friend to check in if you’ll be away for an extended period.

Proactive planning is the best summer plumbing tip for vacationers!

Need a professional eye on your system? Contact Magnificent Plumbing & Rooter for a summer inspection and stay ahead of problems before they start.

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