WACO, Texas (July 14, 2014) – Torrential summer rain, ubiquitous family barbecues, and an influx of weekend visitors can have unforeseen effects on a home’s pipes. Plumbing systems do a lot of extra work during the summer, so Mr. Rooter offers these three tips to help keep a home’s plumbing system in tip-top shape.
Check washing machine hoses
The warm weather and longer days equal more time spent outside and more dirty clothes. This excess use can put a strain on washing machine hoses, so taking the time to ensure that everything is working correctly could save a homeowner both time and money down the road. Inspect hoses for bulges, kinks, or cracks that could result in a burst. Periodic checks can prevent costly and damaging floods. Expert tip: Look into purchasing braided steel hoses for your washing machine, as they are less prone to bursting and last years longer than their rubber counterparts.
Be kind to your disposal
Many foods can damage a garbage disposal and clog your drains, so be mindful when preparing food for summer parties and cookouts. Avoid putting stringy foods, such as cornhusks and celery, in your disposal as they can damage the blades. In addition, pasta, rice, and other foods that expand with water will quickly clog a home’s pipes. Expert tip: Don’t use hot water when grinding food waste. Instead, turn the water on to drain the disposal in between grinding periods.
Look for signs of sewer line breakage
During rainy seasons, water can infiltrate a home’s sewer line and cause a backup. Rain also encourages the growth of nearby plants. Tree roots in particular grow aggressively into underground piping, causing damage. Look for signs of an issue, like standing water on your property, which can indicate a broken sewer line. If you think you may have a broken line, be sure to have your local plumber inspect the issue. Expert tip: Hydroscrubbing your pipes can clear them of debris and roots, allowing your waste to flow freely.