6 Summer Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Clear Drains and Pipes

July 01, 2024

Minnesota summers are full of relaxation, fun, and enjoying the outdoors. However, all the extra activity leads to added strain on your plumbing system, including a higher potential for clogs. Read on to learn about summer plumbing maintenance tips that will help keep your drains and pipes clear throughout the season.

Perform Regular Drain Cleaning

Perform an at-home drain cleaning routine on a regular basis. Hair, soap scum, and other debris accumulate over time, eventually leading to clogs. Use a plunger or drain snake to clear blockages in sinks, showers, and tubs. Avoid chemical drain cleaners as they can eat away at the pipes. For severe clogs and backups, contact Hanson’s for professional drain cleaning service.

Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain

When cleaning up after summer gatherings and cookouts, don’t just let everything wash down the drain. Grease, oil, and fat can solidify, gather on the pipes, and create blockages. Scrape excess food scraps into the trash before washing the dishes and consider using strainers/screens to catch food particles before they can reach the drain.

Maintain Your Garbage Disposal

Speaking of food getting washed down the drain, remember to maintain your garbage disposal to prevent clogs and nasty odors. In addition to grease and fats mentioned above, you should also avoid putting fibrous and starchy foods, large amounts of food waste, bones, and non-food items down the disposal. Run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal to help flush away any remaining debris. Every few days, grind ice cubes while running cold water to help prevent waste buildup and keep the blades sharp.

Monitor Your Water Usage

Water usage tends to increase in the summer because of gardening, swimming, and other seasonal activities. This puts additional strain on your plumbing system and can potentially lead to clogs. Spread your water usage throughout the day and use water-efficient appliances to avoid overloading the system and prevent sudden surges.

Keep Up with Outdoor Drain Maintenance

Don’t neglect drains on your patio, pool deck, and other outdoor areas. Leaves, grass clippings, dirt, and other debris can quickly and easily accumulate in these spaces and create clogs. Check outdoor drains and clean them with a hose regularly, removing any visible blockages left behind by hand. Consider installing drain covers or grates to prevent large objects from entering and causing clogs.

Schedule a Professional Inspection with Hanson’s

Summer should be about relaxation and having fun in the sun. Don’t let the hassle and cost of clogged drains and flooding caused by a wastewater backup get in the way. Use these summer plumbing maintenance tips to keep your drains and pipes clear all season long. To ensure your plumbing system is in optimal condition, consider scheduling a professional plumbing inspection during the summer. The qualified plumbers at Hanson’s can inspect your pipes, drains, and sewer lines, identifying any potential issues before they become major problems. Contact us today for all your plumbing needs.