From aging water heaters to slow drains that turn worse, small problems often show up just as your household’s water use increases. That’s why now’s the perfect time for Covina homeowners to think ahead. Drain Doctor Plumbing & Rooter in Covina, CA helps you get your plumbing in shape before summer’s high temperatures and high demand stress your system and cause some of the most common plumbing problems during summer.
Watch for Signs Your Plumbing Needs Attention
When the weather starts heating up, your plumbing system goes through some changes, too. Pipes expand, water use increases, and the ground around your home shifts slightly with temperature swings. All of that can lead to new leaks or bring older problems to the surface. You might notice faucets that drip a little more, toilets that run longer, or spots on the floor that feel damp when they shouldn’t.
These signs don’t always feel urgent at first, but they’re worth checking out. Small leaks can quietly waste water and drive up your bill. They can also lead to bigger problems like mold or water damage. The sooner you spot a problem, the easier and cheaper it is to fix. An inspection before summer gives you the chance to find those hidden issues before they get worse.
Your Water Heater Might Be Ready for a Break
Hot water use doesn’t go away in the summer. Between showers, laundry, dishes, and maybe even filling a backyard pool or two, water heaters keep working all year. After months of heavier winter use, it has a buildup of wear that affects performance. Sediment collects at the bottom of your tank and makes your heater less efficient. That sediment also leads to strange noises, rust-colored water, or slower recovery times.
You may not even notice until someone runs out of hot water halfway through their shower. If you have a tankless model, spring’s a smart time to descale it and check the filters. Keeping this equipment clean and running smoothly makes daily tasks easier and helps you avoid waking up to a cold surprise when you least expect it.
Keep Outdoor Plumbing in Check
If you use outdoor faucets or have an irrigation system, don’t forget about those parts of your plumbing setup. Freezing weather in the winter can cause cracks in pipes or damage fittings, even if you drained the lines before the first frost. When you go to turn on your hose for the first time in spring, pay attention.
If the water pressure feels weak or you spot a puddle near the foundation, you might have a hidden leak. Irrigation systems can also shift during the colder months, especially if tree roots or soil movement are involved. An inspection helps you spot broken sprinkler heads, misaligned pipes, or valves that need tightening.
Don’t Forget the Drains
Warmer weather often brings bigger meals, summer parties, and more foot traffic in and out of the house. That adds strain to your drains. Kitchen sinks take on food scraps, bathroom drains get more hair and soap buildup, and outdoor drains can get clogged with leaves or dirt after spring rains.
If water starts pooling instead of draining quickly, it’s a sign that something’s blocking the flow. A slow drain might seem harmless, but you’re left with a mess to clean if it backs up completely. Preventative drain service, like snaking slow drains or flushing them with the right cleaner, helps avoid that.
Check for Silent Leaks in the Background
Not all leaks make a splash. Some sneak up on you quietly, showing up as higher water bills or slight drops in pressure. If your fixtures and appliances seem fine but your water use doesn’t match, it’s worth checking for hidden problems. Look around your home for signs of water where it shouldn’t be—under cabinets, around your toilet base, or in the basement near water lines. Sometimes it’s just a worn washer or a loose fitting. Other times, it’s a sign that a pipe is cracked or slowly giving out. Catching these leaks now helps you avoid damage that could cost more later.
Watch the Sewer Line for Trouble
Heavy rains and warmer ground temperatures can sometimes mess with your sewer line. If tree roots are nearby, they might start growing again and push their way into old pipes. That can lead to slow drains, bad smells, or even sewage backing up into your tubs or basement. Spring is a smart time to check the main line if you’ve had trouble in the past. A professional can run a camera through the line to see if roots, cracks, or buildup are causing issues. If they are, you can clean or repair the line before things back up during the summer storm season.
Help Your Plumbing Today
With the right prep, you’ll feel confident knowing your home’s plumbing is ready for whatever summer throws at it. Schedule your seasonal inspection today with Drain Doctor Plumbing & Rooter and start summer with peace of mind. We also offer drain cleaning, sewer, water heater, pipe repair, and other plumbing services.
