4 Common Plumbing Issues in Summer & How to Prevent Them

Summer in Keller, TX, means longer days, backyard barbecues, and plenty of time spent outdoors. But the combination of high temperatures and summer storms can put unexpected strain on your home’s plumbing system.

From soil movement to increased water usage, your pipes, drains, and fixtures may be working harder than ever during the summer months. Recognizing and preventing common summer plumbing problems can help you avoid costly repairs later.

Sewer Line Backups

Keller summers often bring heavy thunderstorms that saturate the soil in a short period of time. This sudden influx of rainwater can overwhelm the municipal sewer system, especially if your home’s plumbing is already vulnerable.

Excess water may back up through your sewer line, drains, and toilets, particularly if tree roots have invaded your sewer lines or if older pipes are starting to deteriorate.

Sewer backups are more likely in summer because the ground can shift slightly when it gets saturated, and the increased pressure can cause cracks or misalignments in your sewer line. Tree roots also thrive during this time of year, searching for water by infiltrating small pipe cracks.

Prevention Tips

• Have your sewer lines professionally inspected and cleaned, especially if your home is older or surrounded by mature trees.
• Install a backflow valve to prevent water from coming back into your home.
• Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper to keep your drains and sewer line clear of blockages.

Clogged Garbage Disposals

Summer cookouts, family gatherings, and outdoor parties often lead to heavier kitchen usage. With more food being prepped and more greasy scraps being rinsed down the drain, your garbage disposal can quickly become overwhelmed.

Fats, oils, and grease solidify in your pipes, leading to clogs that are hard to clear without professional help. In warmer temperatures, this buildup happens faster, and smells can worsen in the heat.

Prevention Tips

• Avoid putting grease, fibrous vegetables (like celery), or starchy foods (like pasta and potatoes) down the disposal.
• Run cold water for a few seconds before and after using the disposal to help flush debris through the system.
• Clean your disposal by grinding ice cubes or citrus peels once a week to reduce odors and buildup.

Slab Leaks

Slab leaks are among the most costly and disruptive plumbing problems a homeowner can face—and they’re more common during hot Texas summers. When the soil underneath your home expands from summer rains and then dries and contracts during dry spells, this movement can put stress on your plumbing. Pipes beneath your concrete foundation can crack or burst as a result.

The heat also accelerates wear and tear on older pipes, increasing the risk of hidden leaks under the slab that can cause serious water damage, mold, and even structural issues if not addressed early.

Prevention Tips

• Watch for signs of a slab leak, such as unexplained water bills, warm spots on the floor, or the sound of running water when all taps are off.
• Schedule a professional inspection if your home is more than 20 years old or has had previous plumbing issues.

Sprinkler System Leaks

Your lawn might be looking green and lush, but summer watering routines can hide an underlying issue: sprinkler system leaks. Because they’re often out of sight, leaks in your irrigation system can go unnoticed for weeks, wasting water and raising your utility bills.

Sprinkler systems are under more strain in the summer due to frequent use and high water pressure. UV exposure and extreme heat can also cause fittings to crack or hoses to become brittle.

Prevention Tips:

• Inspect your sprinkler heads regularly to make sure they’re not damaged or misaligned.
• Check your yard for soggy spots or uneven plant growth—these may be signs of underground leaks.

Request Plumbing Services From Leak Geeks Plumbing

While summer is a great time to relax and enjoy the outdoors, it’s also a season that can reveal (or worsen) hidden plumbing issues in your home.

With the added stress of rain, heat, and increased water usage, it’s important to stay proactive when it comes to plumbing maintenance.

Taking a few simple steps now can prevent emergency calls and major repairs later. Leak Geeks is here to help you keep your plumbing in good condition with prompt service.

Call us to schedule a professional plumbing inspection today before small issues become big headaches.