Prevent Clogged Drains from Summer Activities

Summer fun often brings unexpected plumbing issues. With backyard barbecues, pool days, and outdoor adventures, your plumbing system works overtime. Increased foot traffic, food scraps, grease, sand, and dirt can easily make their way into your pipes, leading to stubborn clogs that disrupt your daily routine.

To keep your drains flowing smoothly and avoid plumbing headaches, follow these simple preventative maintenance tips:

🚰 Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain

• Avoid pouring grease, oil, and food scraps down the kitchen sink. These substances harden over time, leading to blockages that trap food particles and create buildup.

• Use a drain strainer to catch food debris and prevent it from going down the drain.

• Scrape plates into the trash before rinsing them in the sink to reduce the risk of food-related clogs.

🏖️ Keep Sand and Dirt Out of Your Drains

• After beach trips, hose off in an outdoor shower or designated rinse-off station before coming inside. This keeps sand, mud, and dirt from entering your indoor plumbing system.

• Place a bucket of water near entryways for rinsing off sandy feet or shoes.

• If you have a pool, ensure swimmers rinse off before getting into showers to prevent chlorine and debris from clogging your bathroom drains.

♨️ Flush Your Drains Regularly

• Once a week, pour a mixture of hot water and mild dish soap down the drain to break down grease, soap scum, and other residues.

• For extra cleaning power, use a combination of baking soda and vinegar to naturally dissolve buildup. Pour one cup of baking soda, followed by one cup of vinegar, let it fizz for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.

• Consider professional drain cleaning services if you experience slow drainage or frequent clogs—especially in high-use kitchens and bathrooms.

Protect Your Sewer Line from Summer Backups

Summer weather can take a toll on your sewer system, leading to unexpected backups and potential damage. Heavy rains can overwhelm municipal sewer lines, causing water to back up into homes, while dry conditions encourage tree roots to invade underground pipes in search of moisture. Both scenarios increase the risk of slow drainage, blockages, and costly plumbing repairs.

To protect your sewer line and keep everything flowing smoothly, take these preventative measures:

🛠️ Schedule a Professional Sewer Inspection

• Routine sewer line checks can detect early signs of blockages, cracks, or tree root infiltration before they turn into major problems.

• Bravo Plumbing in Littleton, CO, uses advanced camera inspections to assess your pipes without invasive digging.

• Addressing minor issues early on can save you thousands in repairs and prevent unexpected sewer backups.

🌳 Be Mindful of Landscaping Choices

• Tree roots naturally seek out water sources, and sewer lines are a prime target.

• Avoid planting trees, shrubs, or large plants too close to underground sewer lines, as their roots can crack pipes and create major blockages.

• If tree roots have already infiltrated your pipes, consider professional root removal services to clear obstructions and prevent further damage.

🚪 Install a Backwater Valve for Added Protection

• A backwater valve prevents sewage from backing up into your home during heavy rains or municipal sewer system overloads.

• These devices automatically block sewage from re-entering your pipes, keeping your basement and lower-level drains safe from contamination.

• Local plumbing codes may require backwater valve installation—our team at Bravo Plumbing in Littleton, CO can help you determine if your home needs one.

💧 Reduce Stress on Your Sewer System

• Avoid flushing non-degradable items (wipes, feminine products, paper towels) that can contribute to blockages.

• Be mindful of grease and food waste disposal—fats and oils can harden inside pipes and restrict flow.

• Consider installing a sump pump or drainage system to manage excess rainwater and prevent overloading your sewer line.

 Watch Out for Overworked Water Heaters This Summer

Summer brings increased water usage, from more showers and laundry to frequent dishwashing and outdoor cleaning. With this added demand, your water heater works harder, and if it’s not properly maintained, it could lose efficiency, break down, or stop producing hot water altogether.

To keep your water heater running smoothly and avoid costly repairs or replacements, follow these essential maintenance tips:

🔥 Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment Buildup

• Over time, minerals and sediment settle at the bottom of your water heater, reducing efficiency and causing overheating.

• Flushing your tank once a year prevents buildup, helping your heater operate more effectively and extend its lifespan.

• If you hear popping or rumbling sounds from the tank, it’s likely due to sediment buildup, and it’s time for a flush.

• Not sure how? Bravo Plumbing in Littleton, CO offers professional water heater maintenance to keep your system in top shape.

🚰 Check for Leaks and Rust Before They Worsen

• Small leaks can quickly turn into major water damage, especially if they go unnoticed.

• Inspect the base of your water heater, connections, and valves for any signs of dripping or pooling water.

• Look for rust or corrosion, particularly on pipes and fittings, as this can signal a failing tank.

• If you notice leaks or rust, act quickly—Bravo Plumbing Littleton, CO, can repair leaks or recommend a replacement before a major failure occurs.

🌡️ Adjust the Temperature for Efficiency & Safety

• Setting your water heater to 120°F helps conserve energy, reduce scalding risks, and prevent excessive wear on the unit.

• Water heaters set too high waste energy and can cause burn injuries, especially for young children and elderly family members.

• Lowering the temperature by just 10 degrees can result in significant energy savings over time.

💡 Additional Water Heater Maintenance Tips

• Test the pressure relief valve to ensure it’s functioning properly and prevent excess pressure buildup.

• Inspect and replace the anode rod if necessary—this component helps prevent tank corrosion and extends your heater’s lifespan.

• Upgrade to a tankless water heater for endless hot water, increased efficiency, and lower energy bills—Bravo Plumbing Littleton, CO, can help with professional installations!

Schedule Your Summer Plumbing Check-Up Today!

By taking preventative measures now, you can avoid expensive plumbing repairs and enjoy a stress-free summer. Whether it’s clearing drains, inspecting your water heater, or fixing leaks, Bravo Plumbing Littleton, CO is here to help!

Contact us today to schedule your summer plumbing maintenance!

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