How to Protect Your Plumbing During an Anaheim Heat Wave
That first 90-degree day hit Anaheim hard. You quickly found the solution. You and your family now spend those super hot days at The Adventure Lagoon, and your kids have gotten into making fruit popsicles that put a smile on the whole family’s face.
While you’re enjoying shade and sweet treats, your plumbing might just be quietly boiling over. And just like planning a pool day with kids takes prep, your home’s plumbing needs a little love to survive a Southern California heat wave without a meltdown.
But, how exactly can a heat wave harm your plumbing, and what can you do to stop it?
Common Plumbing Problems During a Heat Wave
Pipe Expansion and Ground Shifts
Anaheim soil gets cranky in the summer. When it dries out, it puts stress and strain on your underground pipes, gas lines, sprinkler systems, and water mains alike.
At the same time, heat causes your pipes to expand. That’s extra stress on every joint and seal. Combine it with shifting soil, and you’ve got a perfect storm for summertime leaks or even bursts. And, trust me, the last thing you want is a burst pipe in triple-digit weather.
Change in Water Pressure
Summer means sprinklers, slip-n-slides, and long showers for the whole family after a trip to the beach, for the entire city. The increased water demand can lead to a drop in water pressure, especially during peak hours. A weak flow from your faucet isn’t just annoying; it can make regular tasks like showering inconvenient and take longer, driving up your water bill.
Expansion Tank Overload
Your expansion tank is your water heater’s best friend, but during a heat wave, it can get overwhelmed. Hot temperatures mean water expands more, and that brings even more pressure to your tank.
Too much pressure can lead to leaks or damage to the tank. If you spot bulges or dents, don’t wait to give us a call.
Tree Root Intrusions
Look, having a shade tree makes sitting outside bearable, but if you’re not careful, its roots can lead to blockages, leaks, or even full pipe collapse. Thirsty tree roots are determined to find water wherever they can. And your water and sewer lines happen to be prime real estate. If roots find a crack, they’ll break in like they own the place.
Plumbing Solutions
Check for Leaks
Are there any puddles on your lawn after watering? What about around your water heater? These little signs can be big red flags. Catching leaks as early as possible means avoiding soggy floors and expensive repairs.
As for the pipes hiding behind your walls? An automatic water shut-off is like a mom with eyes in the back of her head. One quick check in on the app, and you’ll know if there are any sneaky leaks dripping water in your home.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
A mother knows that the best way to start an outdoor adventure is with SPF. Similarly, insulating any exposed pipes shields them from extreme heat, preventing expansion, cracks, and plumbing meltdowns by Labor Day.
Adjust High Water Usage Activities
If everyone on the block is running sprinklers and taking showers at the same time, your water pressure drops. Water your lawn early (to avoid evaporation) and stagger showers and other high water usage activities like running the dishwasher.
And if you’re upgrading appliances, opt for low-flow fixtures. They save water and save your system from working overtime. That’s a win-win.
Professional Inspection and Maintenance
Think of a professional inspection as your plumbing’s wellness visit. A mother knows that preventative care saves time, money, and a whole lot of stress later. Our plumbers can spot tiny problems, like a loose valve, before it turns into a full-blown disaster.
Barker and Sons Is Here to Protect Your Plumbing
Water is the secret to getting through a SoCal summer. While you’re focused on popsicles and pool days, we’re making sure your plumbing doesn’t throw a fit.
Whether it’s a quick leak check, a heat-proofing game plan, or fixture upgrades, Barker and Sons is ready. Reach out to us today to save your plumbing from a meltdown tomorrow.
