Summers in Wheeling, Illinois, can bring more than just sunshine; they can bring intense heatwaves that take a toll on your home’s plumbing system. While many people associate plumbing problems with frozen winter pipes, extreme heat can cause just as much trouble.
When temperatures soar, your pipes, soil, and water systems face stress that can lead to leaks, pressure issues, and even burst pipes. Knowing what to look for and when to call a professional can help you stay ahead of the damage.
Here’s how heatwaves affect your plumbing and what you can do to keep everything running smoothly.
Heat Can Cause Pipe Expansion
Just like metal expands in the sun, your pipes can swell when temperatures rise. This is especially true for older pipes or those made from plastic or metal materials. Over time, expansion from repeated heat exposure can lead to small cracks or leaks in your plumbing system.
What You Can Do:
Check visible pipes in your basement, crawl space, or utility room for any signs of warping, dripping, or rust. If you notice a leak, it’s important to have it fixed quickly before it worsens. Our leak detection services can help you find hidden plumbing problems fast.
Dry Soil Can Shift Underground Pipes
Heatwaves often lead to drought conditions, which dry out the soil around your home. When soil becomes too dry, it can contract and shift, moving underground pipes with it. This shifting can crack water or sewer lines and lead to major plumbing issues.
What You Can Do:
If you notice changes in water pressure, wet patches in your yard, or an unusual smell near drains, call a plumber. You may have an underground pipe leak that needs immediate attention.
Drought Can Reduce Water Pressure
A long dry spell doesn’t just affect your yard – it can also reduce your home’s water pressure. When reservoirs and supply systems are under strain, you may notice weaker water flow in your sinks or showers.
What You Can Do:
Low water pressure could also signal a leak or blockage in your plumbing system. If adjusting your water use doesn’t fix the problem, it’s time to schedule a professional plumbing inspection to identify the issue.
More Water Use = More Plumbing Stress
During hot weather, homeowners often use more water for sprinklers, outdoor showers, gardening, or filling pools. While this is normal, increased usage can strain your plumbing system and expose weak points in pipes or fixtures.
What You Can Do:
Use water efficiently by watering your lawn in the early morning or late evening, running dishwashers and washing machines during off-peak hours, and repairing leaky faucets or hose bibbs right away. Routine inspections can also help you spot problems before they get worse.
Summer Storms Can Overwhelm Sump Pumps and Drains
A heatwave often ends with a sudden storm. When that rain finally arrives, your sump pump and drainage systems can struggle to keep up, especially if they’ve gone unused during dry weeks. This can lead to basement flooding and water damage.
What You Can Do:
Before the rain hits, test your sump pump to make sure it’s working properly. Clean out gutters, downspouts, and outdoor drains to keep water flowing away from your home. If your pump is more than 7 years old or frequently cycles on and off, consider having it checked by a professional.
Need help preparing your home for summer storms? Our team at Capps Plumbing & Sewer can help you inspect, repair, or replace your sump pump before it fails.
Prevent Summer Plumbing Problems Before They Start
Heatwaves bring more than high temperatures – they bring high demands on your home’s plumbing. From expanding pipes to underground shifts, small problems can become costly if ignored.
Here’s how to protect your home this summer:
- Inspect exposed pipes for cracks or leaks
- Monitor your water pressure for any drops
- Use water wisely during peak heat
- Check your sump pump before heavy storms
- Call a professional if you notice signs of water damage or leaks
Protect Your Plumbing Before the Heat Hits
By staying proactive, you can avoid major plumbing headaches and enjoy a stress-free summer. If you’re unsure about your plumbing system or suspect something isn’t right, schedule an inspection with Capps Plumbing today. We’re here to help you stay ahead of the heat and any plumbing problems it brings.
