San Jose’s hot, dry summers can put extra stress on your home’s plumbing system. While you might not think about your plumbing until an issue arises, summer is a critical time to perform maintenance and prevent common problems like leaks, clogs, and pressure issues. By taking a few simple steps, you can ensure your plumbing runs smoothly throughout the hottest months of the year.
Here’s how you can prevent plumbing issues during San Jose’s hot summers:
1. Inspect for Leaks
The hot summer weather can cause pipes to expand, which may lead to leaks, especially in older systems. Small leaks often go unnoticed, but over time, they can cause significant damage, increase your water bill, and waste precious water—something especially important in California.
What to Do:
Regularly inspect your faucets, showerheads, and under-sink pipes for any signs of water leakage. Check your outdoor hose bibs as well, since they often go overlooked. If you spot a leak, fix it immediately to prevent further damage. A professional plumber can also inspect your home to detect any hidden leaks.
2. Avoid Overusing Your Garbage Disposal
During the summer, many households host barbecues and parties, which can lead to increased kitchen usage. However, pouring grease, food scraps, or fibrous vegetables like corn husks down the drain can cause clogs and damage to your garbage disposal.
What to Do:
Be mindful of what goes into your garbage disposal. Avoid dumping grease, eggshells, and fibrous foods into the drain, and run cold water for a few seconds before and after using the disposal to flush it properly. For tough clogs, it’s best to call in a plumber rather than using harsh chemical drain cleaners that can damage your pipes.
3. Check for Tree Root Intrusion
San Jose’s dry summer months encourage tree roots to seek out water sources, which can sometimes lead them to invade underground sewer lines. Tree root intrusion is a common cause of sewer blockages and can result in expensive repairs if not caught early.
What to Do:
Inspect your yard for signs of slow drainage, gurgling sounds in your toilets, or foul odors—these can be signs of tree root intrusion. If you suspect roots have infiltrated your sewer line, a professional plumber can conduct a video inspection and recommend trenchless sewer repair to avoid major excavation.
4. Monitor Your Water Pressure
Summer can lead to a drop in water pressure, especially if your neighborhood experiences increased water usage. Low water pressure is not just an inconvenience—it can indicate underlying plumbing problems, such as mineral buildup in pipes or leaks.
What to Do:
Install a water pressure gauge to monitor your home’s water pressure. The ideal range is between 40-60 psi. If the pressure is too high, it can damage your pipes. If it’s too low, a plumber can help identify the cause and resolve the issue, whether it’s a leak, buildup, or municipal water supply issue.
5. Protect Your Outdoor Plumbing
Your outdoor plumbing system, including garden hoses, sprinklers, and outdoor faucets, is particularly vulnerable to damage in the summer heat. Intense sun and heat can cause wear and tear, leading to leaks and inefficiency.
What to Do:
Check hoses for cracks or leaks and replace them if necessary. If you have a sprinkler system, ensure the heads are clean and in good working order. To prevent wasting water, install timers to control your watering schedule and avoid overuse during the hottest part of the day.
6. Get Your Water Heater Serviced
Summer is the perfect time to check your water heater’s performance. As demand shifts between hot showers and washing machines, your water heater may be working harder than usual. Sediment buildup can reduce efficiency, leading to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for your water heater.
What to Do:
Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment and maintain its efficiency. If you notice inconsistent water temperatures or strange noises coming from the heater, it may be time for a professional inspection or repair.
7. Plan for Plumbing Emergencies
Even with preventive measures, plumbing emergencies can happen. Being prepared ensures you can quickly handle any issue that arises, whether it’s a burst pipe or a clogged drain.
What to Do:
Keep a trusted plumber’s contact information handy for emergencies. Knowing who to call can save valuable time and minimize damage if something goes wrong. At Gladiator Repipe & Plumbing, we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services, so you’re never left without help.
Call to Action
Summer in San Jose shouldn’t be a time to worry about plumbing issues. Let Gladiator Repipe & Plumbing handle all your plumbing maintenance and repairs, so you can focus on enjoying the sunshine. Contact us today at or schedule an inspection with our San Jose Plumbers online to ensure your plumbing system is ready for the season!
