With the arrival of summer, and the heat and storms it can bring, it’s important for homeowners to prepare. This post will discuss some helpful electrical and plumbing tips that can benefit the household and homeowners. By staying proactive and following some practical guidelines, people can save money on utility bills and help prevent major repairs.
Plumbing Tips for the Summer
- Conserve Water in the Summer Heat: One way for homeowners to reduce water waste and save money on their water bills is by fixing any existing water leaks, from a leaky faucet to leaks in the water line. Some signs that can point to a leak include a higher-than-normal water bill, running water sounds when plumbing fixtures are off, decreased water pressure, and mold growth. Other ways to save water this summer are by using sprinklers efficiently and watering plants and the lawn during the cooler hours of the day to help minimize evaporation.
- Prevent Sewer Line Backups: People can help prevent a sewer line backup by preventing a clogged sewer line, which is a common cause of backups. This can be done by avoiding flushing the wrong things down toilets, such as non-biodegradable items, and not pouring grease and oils down the drain. Landscaping projects in the summer should also be done with caution to help prevent tree roots from getting into the sewer line and causing blockages and damage.
- Prepare for Vacations: Travel plans can be a source of worry when it comes to plumbing. Nobody wants to come home to a water leak and water damage after leaving their home unattended while on vacation. A precaution to prevent leaks and damage while away is to shut off the main water supply and drain outdoor faucets and hoses before going on vacation.
Electrical Tips for the Summer
- Be Mindful of Power Usage: Some ways to conserve energy and reduce electric bills are by utilizing natural light during the day, especially with longer daylight hours in the summer, unplugging electronic devices that are not in use, and maintaining a steady thermostat temperature rather than frequently adjusting it helps avoid spikes in electricity demand.
- Keep Safe While Outdoors: Safety outdoors is another important consideration in the summer, especially when patios, decks, and gardens become central gathering spaces. Inspecting outdoor outlets, extension cords, and outdoor lighting fixtures to ensure everything remains in good condition helps minimize the risk of problems and accidents. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) should be used near water sources, such as swimming pools.
- Prepare for Storms: Summer storms can lead to power outages and power surges, so it’s important to be prepared. Having a backup power source, like a generator, can provide peace of mind during unexpected outages. Additionally, installing a whole-home surge protector can safeguard appliances and electronics such as refrigerators, HVAC units, televisions, and more from power surges caused by lightning or other electrical disturbances.
Ultimately, thoughtful preparation allows homeowners to enjoy the summer season without being burdened by plumbing or electrical problems. Professionals are available to help with any unexpected problems or to help homeowners prepare, including with water leak detection and repair, or with a whole-house surge protector or whole-home generator installation.
About Parham Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric
Parham Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving its community since 1990. They arrive on time and provide hassle-free service with straightforward pricing. Call them for plumbing and electrical services in Trenton, TN.
