Nov 9, 2023 | Uncategorized
Sewage backups can turn your basement into a nightmare. Raw sewage flooding into your living space brings health risks and extensive damage. Understanding what causes these backups is the first step toward prevention. This article explores the common causes of basement sewage backups and provides tips to safeguard your home.
What Causes Sewage Backups?
Several issues can lead to sewage pushing back through drains and toilets into your basement. The most frequent causes include:
Blockages
Blockages in drainage pipes are a prime culprit behind sewage backups. Debris like hair, grease, and tree roots can narrow pipes over time, eventually plugging them fully. Toilets clogged by wipes, feminine products or other items sent sewage backwards when flushed. Even minor drain clogs can cause backups if located in critical positions. Blockages force sewage to take alternative routes, often into your basement.
Line Breaks
Cracks and breaks in drainage pipes also enable sewage backups. Older pipes made from clay or steel are prone to cracking as they rust and settle. Tree roots infiltrate tiny cracks, widening them as the roots grow. Loose joints between pipes disconnect under pressure. Any breach or break in your home’s plumbing network can provide an opening for sewage to flood your basement during heavy usage.
Overloaded Sewer Lines
Municipal sewer lines get overloaded during intense rainstorms. Large volumes of stormwater and wastewater fill sewer pipes past capacity. The overloaded system pressurizes, pushing sewage backwards into basements through drains and toilets.
Sump Pump Failures
Sump pumps remove groundwater from around your foundation, preventing flooding. But when sump pumps fail due to power outages or mechanical issues, water accumulates and saturates the soil. Liquids follow the path of least resistance – if your floor drain lacks a backflow valve, sewage can flow backwards from overloaded sewers into your basement.
Improper Drainage
Incorrect drainage grading around your home’s foundation funnels groundwater toward your basement walls instead of away from your house. This amplifies wetness against the foundation. Improper drainage, combined with sump pump problems, drastically raises your sewage backup risk whenever the sewer system overflows.
Septic System Issues
Homes on septic systems also face sewage backup risk. When septic tanks are overfull or drainage fields become saturated, sewage can back up through drains into the basement. Insufficient tank pumping and poor septic maintenance heighten your vulnerability.
How to Prevent Sewage Backups
While you can’t eliminate the risk, proactive maintenance significantly reduces the likelihood of basement sewage backups. Key prevention strategies include:
Regular Drain Inspections
Inspect sinks, showers, and floor drains regularly for proper drainage. Pour water into rarely used drains monthly to keep water in the traps. Watch for slow drainage, gurgling noises, or foul smells—signs of possible blockages. Inspect pipes for damage and leaks. Catching issues early better prevents backups.
Drain Maintenance
Routinely clean drains and pipes to remove built-up gunk. Use a drain snake monthly to clear debris and keep water flowing freely. Consider professional hydro jetting services annually to scour interior pipe walls. Proactive maintenance removes blockage risks before they escalate into backups.
Clog-Free Plumbing Habits
Never pour fats, oils or grease down sinks – these coat pipes and attract other debris. Install sink strainers to catch food particles. Throw wipe products and feminine items in the trash, not the toilet. Avoid using harsh drain cleaners or caustic products, which can damage pipes. Making minor plumbing habit adjustments reduces potential clogs.
Rooter Services
Tree roots often infiltrate and break pipes, seeking water sources. If trees grow near your home, consider professional rooter services. Root cutting, foaming, or barriers can protect pipes from damage and blockages. Removing roots also avoids foundation destruction, so it’s a home protection twofer.
Backflow Valves
Plumbing code in many areas now requires backflow valves on basement floor drains. These simple devices allow wastewater out while blocking sewage backflow during floods or sewer overflows. Consider adding backflow valves if not present – installation expenses pale compared to sewage cleanup costs.
Sump Pump Upgrades
Upgrade to heavy-duty sump pumps with backup power capabilities. Test the systems monthly and service them annually. Waterproofing basement walls and improving perimeter drainage keeps groundwater from accumulating around your foundation. Keeping basements drier avoids saturation, enabling sewage to penetrate through floor drains.
Professional Drain Inspections
Periodically hire professional drain inspection services using camera technology to assess pipe condition. Technicians can detect lurking issues like root infiltrations, fractures and deteriorating joints early before they cause problems. Repairs are cheaper when not in an emergency, reducing risk.
Grading Improvements
Ensuring proper drainage slopes away from your home is crucial but commonly overlooked. Add grading if lacking or re-grade improperly sloped areas. Water should flow away from your foundation at a minimum 1″ drop over a 5′ run. Good drainage transporting groundwater from your basement walls drastically reduces sewage backup frequency.
Septic System Care
Homeowners with septic systems should strictly follow maintenance guidelines to prevent malfunctions. Inspections every three years ensure proper operation. Pumping the tank as recommended (generally every 3-5 years) avoids overflows. Poor maintenance will inevitably lead to backups of sewage from your own system.
Protect Your Home: Prevent Sewage Backups with Tap Tech
Being proactive reduces the chances of experiencing the nightmare of a sewage backup. Following drain care best practices keeps your plumbing system in peak shape. At the first sign of slow drains, strange noises, or sewage smells, contact a professional like the experts at Tap Tech for prompt inspection. Taking quick action when issues arise protects your basement and home from destructive damage.
Call us anytime at 613-328-6600 for 24/7 expert plumbing service.
Nov 9, 2023 | Uncategorized
The possibility of frozen pipes becomes a serious concern for homeowners as winter’s frost sets in. Your home’s exposed pipes could freeze and potentially break when the temperature drops below freezing, resulting in water damage and expensive repairs. But with the correct precautions, you can safeguard your pipes and guarantee a worry-free and safe winter.
This article gives crucial advice for protecting your property, preventing pipes from freezing and avoiding the hassle of dealing with frozen and burst pipes.
Tips To Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing:
If you suffer from frozen pipes during winter, the following things will help prevent your pipes from freezing.
Keep Your House Warm
Keeping the interior warm is one of the most important stages in keeping pipes from freezing. Even while you are gone from home, keep the temperature on your thermostat consistent.
Maintaining the thermostat set at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12.8 degrees Celsius) is typically advised to avoid freezing your pipes. Even though you might be tempted to cut back on heating expenses, letting your house get too cold might result in frozen pipes and serious water damage.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Unheated or inadequately insulated pipes are particularly susceptible to freezing. Use pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape to insulate any exposed pipes in your basement, crawl space, attic, or exterior walls.
By maintaining a greater temperature inside the pipes, this additional layer of defence lessens the likelihood that they may freeze. To keep cold air from leaking into the pipes, insulate any openings or cracks in the foundation and walls.
Seal Drafts and Openings
The likelihood of your pipes freezing increases if there are drafts around your windows, doors, and vents, which can let cold air into your house. To fill in any gaps and openings, use caulk and weatherstripping. To reduce cold air infiltration, consider adding door sweeps to outside doors.
Let Faucets Drip
Allow faucets along external walls to drip slightly on particularly cold nights. The risk of freezing can be decreased by allowing a small, continuous flow of water to prevent water from growing stagnant inside the pipes. Keeping faucets open can be an efficient preventive strategy because moving water is less likely to freeze.
Open Cabinet Doors
Open cabinet doors in rooms with colder temperatures, such as the kitchen and bathroom, to facilitate the flow of warm air from the rest of the house. This simple yet effective technique can make a significant difference in preventing pipes from freezing. Exposing the pipes under sinks and along exterior walls to the warmer indoor air creates an environment that reduces the risk of freezing.
As the warm air circulates the pipes, it works to maintain a more constant temperature. This, in turn, prevents the pipes from dropping to freezing temperatures and minimizes the possibility of ice formation.
Use Pipe Heating Cables
When dealing with remote or extremely cold locations, pipe heating cables are an efficient solution to prevent frozen pipes. These cables are designed to wrap around the pipes, providing a consistent and controlled source of low-level heat. By delivering this heat directly to the pipes, pipe heating cables create a buffer against freezing temperatures.
Pipe heating cables come with the advantage of being versatile and adjustable. They can be tailored to fit the length of your pipes and used on exposed and concealed pipes. Some advanced models even have built-in thermostats that activate the cables when the temperature drops to a critical level.
Drain Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
Outdoor hoses should always be disconnected and drained for two reasons. The first benefit is that it stops water from freezing inside the hoses, which might harm both the hoses and the linked pipes. The possibility of water backing up into faucets and freezing there is also decreased.
Simply disconnect the hoses from the outdoor faucets and let any remaining water drain out to implement this precautionary step. When the hoses are empty, store them somewhere protected. To further prevent water from entering the faucet and causing it to freeze, ensure the outdoor water supply is shut off.
Install Smart Home Technology
Think about investing in home temperature monitoring technology. If the temperature dips to a dangerous level, certain smart thermostats can send notifications to your smartphone, enabling you to take prompt action to avoid frozen pipes.
Consider Adding Insulation to Attics and Basements
In addition to helping prevent frozen pipes, a well-insulated attic and basement can contribute to overall energy efficiency. Pipes are less likely to freeze in these regions because of proper insulation, which creates a warmer atmosphere.
Prepare for Vacations
Take additional care to avoid frozen pipes if you intend to be away from home during the winter. Set your thermostat above freezing and enlist the help of a neighbour or dependable friend to routinely check on your house.
Understanding the Causes of Frozen Pipes
But before you implement the tips to prevent your pipes from freezing, it’s vital to know the cause of frozen pipes to tackle the situation effectively. When pipes are exposed to exceptionally cold temperatures, the water inside freezes, resulting in frozen pipes. This phenomenon is caused by several things, including:
- Temperature Drops: Exposed pipes are vulnerable to freezing when temperatures drop below zero, especially during protracted cold spells.
- Inadequate Insulation: Pipes in unheated places like basements, attics, crawl spaces, and external walls are more susceptible to freezing due to insufficient insulation.
- Lack of Heat: Pipes may not stay above freezing temperatures in locations with little heating, empty rooms, or deserted buildings.
- Exterior Faucets and Hoses: Because they are exposed to the cold air directly, outdoor faucets and hoses are more vulnerable to freezing. Frozen water in hoses can seep into the linked pipes.
The Risks of Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes can lead to a cascade of problems, including:
- Burst Pipes: When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and increases pressure. This pressure can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to significant water damage.
- Water Damage: Burst pipes can release a significant amount of water into your home, causing damage to walls, floors, ceilings, and belongings.
- Structural Damage: The force of water from burst pipes can weaken the structural integrity of your home, leading to expensive repairs.
- Mold Growth: Water damage from burst pipes creates an environment conducive to mold growth, which can compromise indoor air quality and pose health risks.
- Disruption: Dealing with burst pipes requires immediate action, which can disrupt your daily life and routine.
Final Words
Pipe freezing must be avoided through proactive measures and thorough planning. Prepare your home for the impending winter’s chilly weather and probable freezing rain. You may have peace of mind knowing that your pipes are protected from freezing temperatures and that your home is protected from the dangers of frozen pipes by putting the proper preventive measures in place.
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Nov 9, 2023 | Uncategorized
Heavy rains can reveal leaks in your home’s foundation and lead to water seeping into the basement. Left unchecked, this water infiltration can cause extensive damage from flooding, mold growth, foundation issues, and even collapse. It’s crucial to act quickly to find and repair any sources of basement leaks.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover:
- The most common causes of basement leaks during heavy rains
- How to thoroughly inspect your basement for signs of moisture or water damage
- Tips for locating specific points where water is entering the basement
- Steps for repairing basement wall and floor leaks
- Preventing leaks from basement plumbing fixtures like sump pumps or water heaters
- Upgrading your basement with flooding prevention systems
- Creating proper drainage and grading around your home
- Long-term waterproofing solutions for your foundation
Read on to learn everything you need to dry your basement after major storms.
Causes of Basement Leaks
Heavy rainfall and flooding can overload a home’s drainage systems and foundation walls, allowing water to seep into basements through cracks and openings.
The most common causes of basement flooding are gaps or cracks in the poured concrete or cinder block foundation walls. As mortar deteriorates between bricks or stones over time, it creates additional gaps for water intrusion. Loose wall ties can cause walls to bow inward, opening up cracks. Even small cracks or openings allow water to follow the path of least resistance downward.
Insufficient or improper exterior waterproofing materials also lead to leakage. Tree roots penetrating the foundation, poor exterior grading causing runoff toward the house, and lack of downspout extensions to divert roof runoff are other potential causes of flooding.
Clogged downspouts, gutters and drainage pipes create backups that send water toward the foundation. In some cases, a high local water table can flood upward into the basement through floors and walls. Window well flooding frequently seeps into window frames and walls during heavy rains.
Basement Plumbing Leaks
In addition to foundation seepage, basement plumbing fixtures are prone to leaks, especially if pipes or appliances are older. Potential problem areas include:
In addition to foundation seepage, basement plumbing fixtures are prone to leaking, especially in older homes. Water heater supply lines or tanks can burst or leak over time. Shutoff valves, supply pipes and drain traps under sinks and laundry tubs often start leaking.
Washing machine water supply lines are another common source as hoses age and connections loosen. Any kinks, cracks or loose fittings in water supply plumbing can develop into leaks. Toilets are also problematic with cracked tanks or bowls, loose bowl connections, and deteriorating wax ring seals.
As heavy rains overload home drainage, sump pumps may be unable to keep up, resulting in backups and flooding. Sewage ejector pumps can also fail or have clogged discharge lines that lead to flooding. Finally, clogged basement floor drains can create standing water backups.
Finding & Diagnosing Basement Leaks
Finding the exact location where water enters your basement is the first step toward solving basement flooding issues. Here are some tips for leak detection:
Begin by thoroughly inspecting your basement interior after heavy rains or sudden snow melts, resulting in standing water. Check for:
- Damp spots or water stains on walls, floors, or ceilings
- Puddles or droplets of water on the floor
- Darkened or warped wood on walls or floor joists
- Bubbling or warped paint, drywall, or flooring materials
- Efflorescence—a white powdery mineral deposit left behind as moisture evaporates
- Mold or mildew growth on walls, wood, or carpets
- A damp, musty odour
Isolate Affected Areas
Note any areas with moisture or leaks to isolate the section of the basement involved. This will narrow down where external water is coming from or which interior plumbing fixture could be leaking.
Inspect Exterior Foundation
Go outside and inspect your home’s entire foundation perimeter. Look closely for:
- Cracks wider than 1/4 inch
- Crumbling, missing, or deteriorating mortar
- Signs of water flow like dirt washing away
- Water droplets or damp concrete after rains
- White efflorescence deposits on exterior walls
- Moss or algae growth indicating chronic moisture
- Misaligned downspouts directing water toward the house
- Use a hose to simulate rainfall and observe if any sections leak.
Check Interior Plumbing
Thoroughly inspect basement plumbing lines and fixtures for moisture, rust, mineral deposits, or other signs of leaks:
- Examine water heater for rust and leaks at fittings, valves, or connections
- Inspect supply lines, drain pipes, and trap assemblies under sinks
- Check for toilet tank cracks and loose bowl connections
- Test sump pump operation and look for backup evidence
- Ensure floor drains and ejector pumps are clear of debris
- Assess washing machine hoses and valves
Professional Leak Assessment
For difficult-to-trace leaks or seepage, a licensed plumber has specialized tools to accurately identify problem areas:
- Moisture meters detect elevated moisture levels in walls or floors.
- Thermal imaging cameras detect temperature differences caused by moisture.
- Floodlights illuminate basement walls to expose cracks.
- Dye testing introduces coloured dye into plumbing to trace leaks.
- Pipe inspection cameras locate cracks or obstructions underground.
Repairing Basement Leaks
Once the sources of basement flooding have been identified, repairs can begin. The best repair method depends on the type and extent of damage:
Minor Foundation Cracks & Holes
For small cracks up to 1/4 inch wide in poured concrete or cinder block foundations, use a concrete crack sealant caulk labelled for basement foundations and masonry repair. Look for flexible polyurethane or epoxy-based sealants that won’t crack over time. Hydraulic cement products are also suitable for minor basement wall repairs.
Follow these steps:
- Using a wire brush, clean out any loose debris and dirt from the crack.
- Apply concrete sealer or patching compound according to product directions.
- Patch larger gaps or holes with hydraulic cement, working it firmly into the crevice.
- Allow full curing times before exposing repaired areas to moisture.
- Check exterior drainage to prevent water from pooling near basement walls.
- Major Foundation Cracks or Wall Damage
Severe Foundation Cracks & Holes
A professional foundation repair contractor is recommended for more severe foundation cracks wider than 1/4 inch, vertical cracks, wall sections moving inward, or severe spalling and crumbling. They have the specialized equipment and materials to provide structural repairs:
Carbon Fibre Reinforcement Strips:
Fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) strips are applied over cracks with epoxy to bond concrete together. This structurally reinforces the wall and effectively repairs cracks up to 1 inch wide.
Wall Anchors:
Steel anchors are embedded within foundation walls using epoxy or concrete. The anchors are attached to adjustable steel brackets on the interior to push bowing walls back into the proper position.
Concrete Wall Patching:
Large holes and severely deteriorated areas of the foundation can be patched by injecting polyurethane foam behind the rebar, followed by applying a cementitious resurfacing compound.
Full Wall Replacement:
In cases of extreme damage, sections of foundation walls may need complete replacement. This requires stabilizing the structure, excavating to access the damaged section building forms, and pouring new reinforced concrete in lifts.
Waterproof Coatings & Membranes
In basements with chronic seepage through porous concrete or excessive humidity, waterproof coatings and membranes provide an extra moisture barrier:
Cementitious Coatings like Thoroseal® contain cement fillers and polymers that seal concrete pores against moisture penetration, both inward and outward. Two to three coats are applied with a brush or sprayer.
Bituminous Coatings and asphalt emulsions also repel water but may have strong odours during application that can linger afterward. Proper ventilation is needed.
Elastomeric Membranes like rubberized asphalt are rolled onto foundation walls to create a thick, flexible, waterproof barrier. These systems drain water down to perforated pipes at the base of walls.
Exterior Waterproofing Membranes can be applied to the outside of the foundation walls before backfilling. These adhesive sheets prevent moisture from contacting the foundation.
Fixing Basement Floors
In addition to walls, basement floors are susceptible to moisture damage and must be repaired and protected:
- Remove any water-logged carpeting, underlayment, wooden subflooring, and floor trim to expose the bare concrete floor. Allow floors to dry thoroughly.
- Repair cracks and deterioration in the concrete surface with hydraulic cement filler and resurfacing products.
- Etch and clean bare concrete floors before applying waterproofing sealant.
- Use an epoxy-based concrete floor sealant to waterproof floors against moisture penetration from underneath.
- Install an interior perimeter French drain and sump pump system to collect and remove seepage.
- Replace flooring only after concrete repairs and sealants have been applied and the floor is completely dry.
Ontario’s Trusted Plumbing Experts
Preventing and addressing plumbing issues requires diligent inspection, leak detection, and proper repairs. At Tap Tech, our licensed plumbers have over 25 years of experience diagnosing and resolving residential and commercial plumbing problems.
- 24/7 emergency services
- Scheduled appointments
- Professional plumbing services include drain cleaning, sewer repair, sump pump replacement, and leaky pipes.
Contact a certified plumber today from Tap Tech! Book Here or call 613-328-6600 for 5-star plumbing services and solutions.
Oct 11, 2023 | Uncategorized
A sump pump is a critical device installed in basements prone to water intrusion. It sits in a pit at the lowest point of the basement floor and activates when water reaches a certain level, using a pump to force water out through pipes to a safe drainage area. By removing groundwater and leakage from broken pipes or appliances before it floods the basement, a properly functioning sump pump provides invaluable protection.
However, sump pumps can and do fail from time to time. Their electrical and mechanical parts can become blocked, disconnected or simply wear out. In some severe weather situations, the pump may be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of water flowing into the basement and be unable to keep up. Understanding why basement flooding happens even with a sump pump and how to prevent pump failure is crucial to protect your home.
Causes of Basement Flooding Despite a Sump Pump
There are several common reasons a basement can flood even with a sump pump installed:
Clogged Gutters – When gutters fill up with leaves and debris over time, they can overflow during heavy rain or snowmelt. The water runs off the roof and pools around the home’s foundation, seeping into the basement. Keeping gutters clean and free of clogs ensures proper drainage and diversion of water away from your home.
Broken Downspouts – Downspouts are supposed to direct water from gutters away from the house. But if they become damaged or disconnected, that water instead flows down the outer walls and towards the basement. Periodically inspect downspouts for any needed repairs or realignment.
Inadequate Waterproofing – If the basement was not properly waterproofed and sealed during construction, water can gradually seep in through cracks and holes in the concrete, especially in wet climates or flood zones. Proper waterproofing techniques must be used.
Undersized Sump Pump – Sump pumps are rated to handle average weather conditions and typical regional rainfall. But an unusually high volume of water from heavy storms or rapid snowmelt can overtax an undersized pump. Consider upsizing for a generous safety margin.
Power Outage – Standard sump pumps run on household electricity. When power goes out during storms, the pump stops working unless it has a backup power source. A battery backup system or generator ensures the pump keeps running during an outage.
Overworked Pump – Running too often without breaks causes a pump to wear out faster. Ensuring downspouts, gutters and surface grading direct water away from the home can reduce pump cycles and strain.
Nearby Plumbing Leaks – Leaky pipes in the basement ceiling or a hot water tank can drip considerable amounts of water over time. Regular inspections and maintenance help detect plumbing issues early.
Preventing Sump Pump Problems
Routine maintenance and proper installation reduces the risk of sump pump failure leading to flooded basements:
- Test the pump regularly by pouring water into the pit to trigger the pump and ensure it runs when required.
- Install a battery backup system or generator to power the pump during outages.
- Use two pumps for redundancy in case one fails or gets overwhelmed.
- Keep the sump pit clear of dirt, debris and mold buildup which can clog the pump.
- Hire experienced professionals for installation per manufacturer specifications. DIY mistakes often lead to early failure.
- Size the pump adequately for the home’s expected weather conditions and water volumes. Overpower for heavy duty performance.
- Replace the pump every 5-7 years or according to recommendations to prevent age-related breakdowns.
Addressing a Flooded Basement
Even well-maintained sump pumps sometimes fail, resulting in a flooded basement. Act quickly to minimize damage:
- Call a plumber to determine why the basement is flooding and fix the root cause. Speed is critical to prevent permanent moisture issues.
- Shut off electricity at the breaker if there is significant standing water, to prevent electrocution and appliance damage.
- Move valuables like boxes and furniture to upper levels so they stay dry. Assume items left on the floor will get wet.
- Use water pumps and wet/dry vacuums to extract as much standing water as possible. The less time water sits, the better.
- Inspect the sump pump and pit for any blockages, and clear them so the system works again.
- Have the failed sump pump replaced with a new unit as soon as possible by a professional.
- Take photos of all flooding and damage for insurance claims that may help cover pump repairs or replacement.
While flooded basements cause headaches, taking quick action to address the root issue, limit water damage, and get drainage restored can help mitigate the impacts. Calling a plumber right away is advised whenever flooding occurs. Investing in robust sump pump solutions will also help avoid problems down the road.
In Summary
A properly working sump pump is essential to keep basements dry and prevent costly water damage. However, pump failures can and do occur due to a variety of reasons. Staying on top of maintenance, inspection and testing is key to reducing failure risk. If flooding does happen, taking rapid action to address the source, extract water, and restore drainage can help minimize impacts. Investing in robust backup pump systems and waterproofing also provides an added layer of protection from wet basements. With proper precautions and response plans in place, sump pump failure does not have to spell disaster.
If you are experiencing any basement flooding issues or sump pump failures, don’t wait – take action now. Contact the experts at Tap Tech for fast, reliable plumbing services.
With over 25 years of experience in residential and commercial plumbing, we are committed to helping homeowners like you restore order when basement flooding or sump pump failure strikes. Our team of fully licensed, experienced plumbers are available 24/7 to rapidly respond, diagnose the root cause, and implement solutions to get your drainage working properly again. We utilize the latest techniques and equipment, yet provide transparent, upfront pricing so you aren’t surprised by hidden fees.
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Oct 11, 2023 | Uncategorized
The warm weather of summer calls for relaxation, backyard gatherings, and time with friends and family. But you can only enjoy the season if your home’s plumbing system is prepared for the increased use and potential strains of summer. Take the time now to inspect, test, and maintain all aspects of your plumbing to avoid headaches later. This prepares your system for visitors and prevents costly repairs during the peak of summertime fun.
Inspect Hoses, Valves, and Washing Machine
Start by examining all outdoor and indoor hoses. Look for cracks, leaks, and loose connections. Tighten any loose fittings with pliers. Turn water on and off at each hose bib and sprayer to test for leaks. Also inspect laundry room hoses and valves. Run the washing machine through a short cycle while watching for drips or leaks. Catching leaks now prevents damage later.
In addition, turn all water supply valves on and off. This ensures they operate properly and don’t get stuck open later. Check for drips or weepage that indicates a faulty valve. Replacing valves now is quicker than an emergency replacement when one fails.
Service the Hot Water Heater
Most homeowners do not think about their hot water heater in the summer months but this is actually the best time to drain and inspect the heater because there is no risk of freezing. If you find that your water heater is in need of a repair or a replacement, you will not have to deal with competition if you book an appointment in the summer because a plumber’s schedule will be more flexible when it is warm out. Once winter arrives, it will be a lot harder to book an appointment because this is the busiest season for hot water heaters.
Monitor Water Pressure
Before leaving for vacation, check water pressure at several faucets. Install a pressure gauge if needed. Pressure can build up in stagnant systems while you’re away. Consider adding a pressure regulator to protect pipes and prevent leaks.
Also, turn faucets on and off before your vacation. This ensures shut-off valves work properly. A plumber can then repair any issues before you leave rather than dealing with floods upon returning.
Maintain Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation
Examine all exterior hose bibs and faucets. Look for rust, drips, and difficulty opening or closing. Replace any deteriorated bibs now to maintain access to outdoor water. Also inspect irrigation system valves and backflow preventers. Consult a plumber for any necessary irrigation maintenance or repairs.
Provide your guests with friendly reminders
Visitors may flush items that don’t belong in the toilet and this can lead to plumbing emergencies. Don’t be shy and remind your guests not to flush cotton swabs or paper towels because these items belong in the trash. This reminder is especially important if your home is the popular place to hang out and this piece of information can help prevent clogs and stoppages.
Test the Sump Pump
Heavy rainstorms can overwhelm sump pumps if not properly maintained. To prepare, test your pump by simulating a downpour. Clear any debris around the intake. Listen for proper operation without excessive run times. Consider upgrading your pump or adding battery backup if necessary. Investing in a quality pump prevents flooded basements and water damage.
Maintain Garbage Disposal Use
Summer produce can wreak havoc on disposals. Avoid jams by keeping fruit pits, corn husks, and other fibrous waste out of the disposal. Place a small garbage can near the sink to properly dispose of these items. Inform guests how to properly use the disposal. Preventive measures now save you from disassembly and repairs later. Proper use keeps food waste flowing properly.
To Summarize
Taking preventive maintenance steps now avoids plumbing emergencies later, allowing you to relax and enjoy the summer season without disruptive and costly plumbing repairs. A few hours inspecting and maintaining your plumbing system gives you peace of mind that your home’s pipes and fixtures are ready for summertime fun. Being proactive saves money and lets your summer be filled with joy rather than plumbing headaches. Prep your plumbing so you can make the most of sunny days with family and friends.
Keep Your Plumbing System Ready at All Times!
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For over 25 years, Tap Tech has provided Southeastern Ontario with premier drain cleaning, leak detection, pump replacement, and all other residential and commercial plumbing services. Our licensed, highly-trained plumbers have the experience, equipment, and expertise to address any plumbing challenge quickly and efficiently.
We offer 24/7 availability for plumbing emergencies so you’re never left without support. We provide upfront pricing so you aren’t surprised by hidden fees. Our prompt response times allow us to solve problems before major damage occurs. We offer superior hydro jetting and sewer video camera inspection services for the best results.
Contact Tap Tech today to schedule premier plumbing services for your home or business.
