5 Common Summer Plumbing Issues and How to Fix Them

Now the UK is seeing the summer sunshine and lockdown restrictions are easing, it’s important to be prepared for common summer plumbing issues that happen year after year. With garden parties and the kids being home for the summer, our water systems are under more strain, so it’s important to keep your eyes peeled for these five common problems.

1. Blocked toilets

Toilets tend to get used more than usual during the summer months when kids are off school and people visit more often for BBQs and garden parties. The most common causes of blocked toilets are wet wipes and feminine hygiene products being disposed of down the toilet, so make sure you let all guests know what can’t be flushed.

Most toilet blockages can be shifted with a standard plunger, so head to your local hardware store and have one on standby to deal with blockages quickly.

2. Washing machines

With trips to the beach and days out, clothes washing tends to pile up over the warmer months. But our washing machines tend to be neglected even with extra use.

Blocked or cracked pipes are a common issue when a washing machine starts getting used more often. If you notice water not draining efficiently or it’s not cleaning as effectively, this could be the problem.

Carefully pull your washing machine away from the wall to check the water pipes at the back. If you can’t find the cause of the problem, give us a call. We’ll be able to pinpoint the problem and let you know what repairs are needed.

3. Leaking garden tap

Outdoor taps tend to wear over time when we’re watering the garden every day over the summer. A small leak from your outdoor tap might not seem like a big issue, but you’ll be surprised how much water this wastes over time.

You might be able to stop the leak by tightening the connection of the faucet, or you may need a new tap if yours is looking cracked or tired. Either way, it’s an easy fix to save a lot of wasted water.

4. Sprinkler systems

Do you have a sprinkler system in your garden? They’re great for keeping lawns looking green and lush all summer long, but they often have issues after being left off most of the year.

When you start using it again, keep up regular maintenance to keep it running efficiently. This includes checking the pressure, cleaning the heads, and inspecting the lines for cracks or leaks.

5. Sewer line backups

Summer thunderstorms tend to cause flash flooding over a short period of time and brings the risk of backups in the sewer lines. If you find water backing up through your toilet or bathtub, there’s a backup in the sewer line and you need to call a plumber ASAP to get it fixed professionally.

Need a plumber in Eastbourne?

If you experience any plumbing issues over the summer in Eastbourne, call us straight away. The last thing you want to do is ruin your summer plans with a leak, burst pipe, or backed up toilet. Our team of plumbers will get the problem fixed quickly and efficiently, so you can get back to enjoying your summer.