As water is becoming more scarce due to rapid evaporation from the atmosphere, summer is a critical time for the nation’s water supply. Conservationists urge everyone to use water-saving techniques to reduce water scarcity. Water-saving plumbing measures have been developed over decades, raising public awareness of water waste’s negative effects. Experts hope this knowledge will increase people’s awareness of water usage and encourage sticking to their water-saving advice.
If you are searching for ways to conserve more water, the experts at Airco Services recommend these tips that you need to know so you can start making a difference.
9 Summer Plumbing Tips That Can Save You Time and Money
Summertime is a time for outdoor adventures such as swimming, playing outside, and visiting friends. However, this also brings increased traffic and water use inside and outside your home. Preventing common plumbing issues is easy, but contacting a professional plumber for unusual problems can save time and money in the long run.
1. Leak Detection
During summer, inspect all plumbing fixtures for leaks, as long winters can cause hidden damage. Inspect faucets, pipes, shower heads, bathtub spigots, drinking water lines, water softener connections, hot water heaters, outdoor spigots, lawn sprinklers, pools, and spas for rust, corrosion, leaks, broken parts, or other issues. Use a flashlight to see underneath cabinets and dark corners before winter arrives.
Water Heater
Check your water heater for leakage, rust, and corrosion. Water heaters with tanks generally last 10 to 15 years. Occasionally clean any mineral deposit and regularly flush out sediment buildup. You should consider replacing anode rods as part of your water heater maintenance or replacing your old system with a heat-on-demand system. Also, you should shut off or lower the water heater temperature if you’re going on vacation to conserve energy.
For the Overall System
To test a hidden leak somewhere in your home, choose a time when nobody will be home for at least 15 minutes and when no water-using appliances are running. Check the water meter and note the numbers before leaving. If they remain consistent, there may be no leaks. Track usage statistics on your water bill for further clues.
2. Check Your Pressure
Maintaining good water pressure is especially important during the summer, especially for showers, washers, and other utilities. A store-bought gauge can be attached to an outside spigot to measure the standard household water pressure, which should not exceed 60 psi. A pressure regulator between the home and the main water line is preset for 50 psi, and adjustments can be made by the user or water company. If water pressure is low, consult the local water utility for any work or complaints.
3. Sprinkler Systems
Sprinkler systems are susceptible to leaks, so regular inspection and cleaning can help identify issues early. If rusted or damaged, replace the old head at a hardware store. Some systems may already have a rain sensor, preventing them from running during or after a big storm.
4. Main Water Valve
Knowing the main water shutoff to your home is critical for safety. Some homes have a shutoff valve within the structure, while others have one outside. Consult a plumber to locate the valve, turn it off, and try running water if it doesn’t. If you leave home for extended periods, turn off the water at the main valve to protect against water mishaps and flooding. Regularly check for utilities that require the main valve to be open.
5. Clog Prevention
In warm weather, you should identify slow drain or weak flush issues and prepare for routine clogs with plungers and an inexpensive auger. If your toilets flush slowly or you see gray water, call a professional for an inspection. Train children on proper toilet usage and use lid locks. For kitchen sinks, use hot water and a clog-clearing chemical product.
6. Test that Pump
Test your sump pump before summer storms to ensure it’s working properly. Sump pumps are essential for basements or crawl spaces, as they prevent flooding and are less expensive than cleaning up flooded basements. Leaks can waste up to one trillion gallons of water annually, and conserving water is crucial for saving money and the environment.
7. Guard the Garbage Disposal
Summer brings fresh fruits and vegetables, but not all are good for kitchen garbage disposal. Avoid stringy, hard, and bulky foods, and grease and oil. Use cold water and citrus peel to clean the disposal. Be mindful of what goes down the drain, and use sink strainers to catch food particles.
8. Watch the Washer
Summertime brings dirt, laundry, and more work for the washer due to outdoor activities, yard work, and guests visiting. To prevent this, start springtime by inspecting the washer and its parts, checking connections and hose appearance. Replace cracked or distressed hoses with stainless steel ones, as they are stronger and last longer than rubber ones.
9. Sweaty Pipes
Condensation on pipes and faucet heads is normal when cold water runs or has just passed through them. It usually stops after finishing with cold water. Constant condensation may indicate issues like leaky faucets or improper valve adjustment. Insulated wrapping products can prevent moisture formation.
Home Plumbing Tips to Save Water
H
Shut Off Your Water Outlets
Shut off water outlets when not in use to conserve clean water, as brushing teeth and leaving faucets on can waste eight gallons of water, according to the EPA.
Learn to Recycle Used Water
Recycling used water is a crucial plumbing tip due to global water scarcity. Environmentalists teach people to recycle water independently, such as using a bucket or basin for fruit and vegetable washing. This water can be used for plant watering and pre-washing household fixtures.
Check Your Plumbing for Signs of Water Leakage
Regularly monitoring water leakage in your home is crucial to prevent significant water bills and global water supply issues. Check exposed plumbing parts like pipes, faucets, drain traps, showerheads, and toilet seats, and tighten loose screws or levers using the correct tools.
Identify the Best Time to Water the Plants
Plants require constant watering, especially during summer. The optimal time to water is during cold hours, as plants absorb water better before sun drying. This also conserves water.
Keep the Drains and Sewer Clean
Regularly cleaning drains and sewers is crucial for water conservation. Avoid chemical-based cleaners and use kitchen staples like vinegar, baking soda, and hot water. Overflowing dirty water can harm the plumbing system and the environment.
Upgrade your Kitchen and Bathroom Fixtures
Upgrade your kitchen and bathroom fixtures with Energy Star-certified appliances. This will conserve water and make your appliances more efficient.
Find the Optimal Place for Your Sprinkler System
Smart home plumbing involves locating the optimal spot for indoor and outdoor sprinklers to ensure equal water distribution, preventing water wastage and uneven grass growth.
Install Rainwater Tanks During Summer
Rainwater tanks are an effective plumbing solution for conserving water during summer, connecting to roof gutters, and offering varying storage capabilities to accommodate water shortages.
Remember the Full Load Principle for Appliances
Increase water-saving habits by following the full load principle for energy-star-rated appliances like dishwashers and washing machines, which use more water efficiently when almost or fully loaded.
Schedule Your Plumbing Maintenance Services
Professional plumbers offer crucial plumbing maintenance services, diagnosing potential issues and identifying necessary pipe replacements to prevent water loss and prevent bursting.
5 Plumbing Safety Tips You Need to Know
Exposure to Harmful Substances
Plumbing repairs expose homeowners to harmful substances like asbestos, lead, sulfur dioxide, and sewer gas.
Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
Working in plumbing exposes individuals to harmful chemicals like solvents, adhesives, and soldering materials, which can cause harm if ingested or come into contact with eyes or skin.
Electrical Shock
Professionals should handle plumbing repairs due to the risk of electrical shock, as electricity and water do not mix, requiring shutting off both supplies.
Exposure to Biohazards
Sewage floods expose plumbing to harmful biohazards like sewage, rodents, and bird droppings, which can carry pathogens that can cause severe illness.
Plumbing Safety Gear
Ensure proper safety during plumbing work by wearing protective eye, ear, clothing, face masks, non-slip shoes, steel toes, and ergonomics. Avoid hazardous situations and use safe lifting techniques. We recommend trusting a professional plumber for safety procedures, allowing you to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Make It a Safe Summer With Airco Service
With summer upon us, it’s important that you participate in ways to help conserve our planet’s most precious resource. While you’re at it, you should also make sure to have your plumbing, electric, heating, and air conditioning checked by professionals. If you live in our service area of Oklahoma or Arkansas, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re happy to help ensure everything is working properly!
To schedule a service with the Airco Service experts, simply fill out our convenient online contact form.
Why Updating Wall Insulation Is Crucial