Michigan summers may be short, but they come with plenty of heat, humidity, and the occasional sudden downpour – all of which can put outdoor plumbing systems to the test. From sump pumps working overtime during rainstorms to hoses and spigots taking on sun exposure and increased usage, summer brings challenges that often go overlooked. Stadler Plumbing & Heating encourages Macomb County homeowners to use this season as an opportunity to inspect, maintain, and reinforce their plumbing systems before minor issues become major repairs. Staying a step ahead can help ensure your home is ready for whatever summer has in store. Be sure to contact us today to schedule an appointment!
How Does Hot Weather Impact My Plumbing?
It’s easy to assume cold weather is harder on plumbing, but extreme heat and seasonal changes can cause problems as well – particularly for outdoor systems. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can weaken hose materials, causing cracking or leaks. Outdoor pipes that aren’t insulated can expand under heat stress and contract again at night, increasing wear and tear at joints and fittings.
Dry ground conditions caused by summer heat can also shift soil around underground pipes. As soil compacts or moves, it may place uneven pressure on plumbing lines, leading to stress fractures. This problem is especially prevalent in older systems. These subtle shifts can fly under the radar until there’s a sudden loss in pressure or signs of water leaking into the yard.
Summer storms introduce another set of variables. Sudden heavy rainfall, which is common in Macomb County, can overwhelm outdoor drainage systems and sump pumps. If your sump pump hasn’t been inspected or tested recently, it may not perform well under sudden demand. In some instances, improper yard grading or clogged downspouts can compound drainage issues and direct water toward the foundation or basement – areas where outdoor plumbing and indoor systems meet.
Even pool equipment and irrigation systems can be impacted by inconsistent water pressure, mineral buildup from increased use, or malfunctioning valves. When temperatures are high and systems are running constantly, small inefficiencies tend to show up fast.
What Should I Do To Prepare My Sump Pump for Summer Rainfall?
Sump pumps play a major role in protecting basements from flooding during sudden summer storms. If the system is outdated, poorly maintained, or overworked, it might not respond when needed most. Here are several ways to prep your sump pump before heavy rainfall becomes a problem:
- Test the pump manually by pouring water into the sump pit and watching to make sure it activates and drains properly.
- Check the discharge line outside the home to make sure it’s clear and draining water well away from the foundation.
- Inspect for clogs or debris in the pit itself, especially if the lid has been left off or if leaves, dirt, or pests have gotten inside.
- Verify that the float switch moves freely, as a stuck float can keep the pump from turning on even if the water rises.
- Ensure you have a battery backup system, especially in areas where summer storms frequently knock out power. Without one, the pump won’t function during outages.
- Schedule a professional inspection with Stadler Plumbing & Heating to confirm that the entire system is in working order and ready to handle increased rainfall.
Routine sump pump checkups are just as important in summer as they are in spring, particularly in areas like Macomb County where seasonal rain patterns can shift quickly.
How Can I Prevent Summer Plumbing Issues Before They Happen?
Taking a few preventative steps at the start of the season can reduce the likelihood of emergency repairs and water-related frustrations later on. Here are some proactive ways to get your outdoor plumbing ready for summer:
- Inspect outdoor faucets and hoses for signs of cracking, rust, or leaks. Even small drips can waste hundreds of gallons over the course of a season.
- Install hose bib covers or insulators if you’re experiencing high water pressure or if the spigots are in constant direct sun.
- Check sprinkler heads and irrigation lines for blockages or misalignment. Misfiring sprinklers can damage the lawn or lead to soggy spots that attract pests.
- Ensure gutter downspouts are extended far enough away from your home’s foundation. Redirecting this water keeps it from pooling near basement windows or entry points.
- Have your backflow preventer tested if your home has one. These devices keep contaminants from entering your water supply and should be inspected yearly.
- Monitor water bills for sudden increases, which may point to hidden leaks in outdoor lines or underground piping.
Consistent maintenance doesn’t just protect your property, it helps your plumbing systems operate more efficiently all season long.
Call Stadler Plumbing & Heating Today!
Midwest summers are unpredictable, and a well-prepared plumbing system makes all the difference when storms roll in or temperatures soar. A professional checkup from Stadler Plumbing & Heating ensures that key components like your sump pump and outdoor lines are working efficiently, with no hidden issues brewing underground or behind walls. Set up your summer plumbing service today, and move through the season with fewer interruptions and more confidence in your system’s performance!