As temperatures rise and homeowners in B.C. enjoy longer days, summer is the ideal time to tackle routine plumbing maintenance. While winter poses risks like frozen pipes, summer brings its own set of challenges, including increased water usage, seasonal wear and tear, and outdoor plumbing concerns.
Whether you’re a homeowner in Langley or managing a commercial space in Vancouver, a summer plumbing check-up helps avoid unexpected problems and keeps your system running smoothly when demand is high.
1. Increased Water Usage Can Expose Weak Points
During summer, water usage often spikes. Lawns are watered, pools are filled, and families shower more often after outdoor activities. This added strain can reveal existing plumbing issues that have gone unnoticed.
Watch for drops in water pressure, unusual sounds, or dripping faucets. These can be signs that a pipe or fixture needs attention. The earlier you address a problem, the less likely it is to grow into a costly repair.
2. Outdoor Plumbing Needs Regular Checks
Summer is when outdoor spigots, irrigation systems, and hose bibs get heavy use. If any of these were damaged over the winter or left unmaintained, you could be wasting water without even noticing.
Look for leaks around hose connections and test sprinkler heads to ensure even coverage and proper operation. For businesses with landscaping systems, a professional inspection can help maintain both function and efficiency.
3. Drainage Issues Are Common in Warmer Months
Summer rainstorms can overwhelm clogged drains and expose slow-draining sinks or showers. Tree roots also grow faster in the warmer months and may find their way into underground sewer lines.
If your home or business experiences slow drainage, gurgling sounds, or bad smells, it’s time for a camera inspection. At Cohesive Mechanical, we use specialized tools to locate and resolve blockages quickly and cleanly.
4. Summer Heat Can Aggravate Pipe Expansion
Though freezing isn’t an issue in summer, heat can also impact pipes. High temperatures can cause materials to expand, potentially weakening joints or seals. If pipes are poorly insulated or exposed to direct sunlight, they may be more vulnerable to leaks.
Checking exposed pipes in attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls for signs of moisture or wear is a smart seasonal task, especially in homes with older plumbing systems.
5. Your Water Heater Still Needs Attention
Many people assume hot water tanks don’t need maintenance in summer, but that’s not the case. Sediment buildup doesn’t stop just because temperatures go up.
Flushing your tank in the summer can improve energy efficiency and extend the unit’s life. Plus, if you’re planning a vacation, it’s wise to check your heater before you go. No one wants to return to a leak or an unexpected failure.
6. Summer Entertaining Can Stress the System
Hosting guests, running laundry, and cooking more often all contribute to higher water use. If your home will be busier than usual, or if you operate a hospitality business, your plumbing system needs to be ready.
Routine checks of kitchen sinks, toilets, and dishwashers can catch minor issues before they interrupt your plans. In commercial settings, summer is also a good time to test emergency shut-off valves and water conservation fixtures.
7. Commercial Properties: Stay Ahead of Demand
If you manage a retail space, restaurant, or apartment building in Chilliwack or Abbotsford, summer means more foot traffic, and more strain on your plumbing.
Don’t wait for tenants or customers to complain. A summer check-up can include:
- Inspecting floor and bathroom drains
- Cleaning grease traps
- Testing pressure regulators
- Checking backflow prevention devices
- Verifying water meter accuracy
Cohesive Mechanical works with commercial clients across B.C. to create efficient, reliable systems that hold up to seasonal demand.
8. Prevent Summer Water Waste
Leaks can happen quietly, behind walls, under sinks, or in areas you don’t often check. But during summer, they’re especially costly with water bills often rising due to seasonal use.
Take time to:
- Check for wet spots or mould in hidden areas
- Listen for running water in toilets
- Watch for spikes in your utility bill
- Inspect laundry and kitchen appliance hoses
Addressing these small issues now can prevent larger plumbing problems later in the year.
9. A Simple Checklist for Summer Plumbing Maintenance
Use this basic list to stay on top of your home or business plumbing this season:
- Check hose bibs and outdoor spigots
- Flush and inspect your water heater
- Test water pressure at all major fixtures
- Clear debris from drains and downspouts
- Schedule a camera inspection if drains are slow
- Review water usage for unusual patterns
- Inspect exposed pipes for wear or damage
Want help? Our experienced technicians are just a call away.
Get Ready for a Hassle-Free Summer
From small repairs to full inspections, summer is the right time to make sure your plumbing system is in great shape. At Cohesive Mechanical, we provide honest, affordable service to homes and businesses throughout the Fraser Valley and Greater Vancouver.
Contact us now to schedule your summer plumbing check-up and avoid preventable issues down the road.