When the heat ramps up in Kalispell, plumbing issues aren’t typically the first thing on anyone’s mind. But summer brings its share of home maintenance headaches, many of which involve your pipes, fixtures, and appliances. From overworked sprinklers to sewer backups during thunderstorms, warm weather can stress your plumbing system in ways you might not expect.
The good news is that most of these problems are preventable with a few simple steps. Whether you’re gearing up for family barbecues, planning a camping trip in Glacier, or just trying to keep your lawn green this season, here are the things to watch out for and how you can stay ahead of summer plumbing issues in the Flathead Valley.
Clogged Garbage Disposals
Summertime means plenty of cookouts, fresh produce, and busy kitchens. However, your garbage disposal isn’t built to handle everything from the cutting board. Corn husks, melon rinds, and greasy meat trimmings can jam the blades or clog the drains.
To prevent clogs, avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods like celery, potato peels, or onion skins down the disposal. Always run cold water before, during, and after using the unit to help push waste through the pipes. Freshen and clean your disposal weekly using ice cubes and citrus peels, which can help dislodge buildup and reduce odors.
Sewer Line Backups
Sudden summer downpours are common in Kalispell. When the ground becomes saturated, it can overwhelm your sewer system. This is especially likely if tree roots have infiltrated the pipes or if clogs are already forming in the line.
You can reduce the risk by scheduling a sewer line inspection with our team. We recommend inspections every year or two, especially for older homes. Only flush single-ply toilet paper, and place wipes, paper towels, and hygiene products in the trash rather than the toilet.
Overworking Your Washing Machine
With extra laundry from yard work, hiking, and summer guests, your washing machine gets more use this time of year. This increases the risk of hose leaks, mechanical strain, and even water damage.
Inspect hoses regularly for bulges or cracks and replace them if they show signs of wear. Keep a few inches between the machine and the wall to prevent kinks. Avoid overloading the drum; smaller loads are easier on both your washer and your plumbing system.
Outdoor Faucet Issues
Montana’s dry summers make lawn care a priority. But watering can increase your bill or cause foundation problems if there are leaks you can’t see. Sprinkler heads and spigots may have suffered winter damage, with summer revealing the issues.
At the start of the season, turn on all outdoor fixtures and walk your yard to check for dripping faucets, puddles, or damaged sprinkler heads. Clean and adjust sprinkler heads regularly, and consider installing a hose timer to avoid overwatering or forgetting the hose overnight.
Low Water Pressure
Weaker water flow in sinks or showers may signal more than just seasonal usage. It could be related to sediment buildup, a pressure regulator problem, or a hidden leak in your plumbing system.
Start by running all taps for several minutes to flush minor sediment. Remove and clean faucet aerators if buildup is visible. If your water meter continues to move with all water off, you may have a leak. Contact our team for leak detection or pressure regulation services.
Toilet Clogs
When kids are home on break or guests visit, toilets see more use. Increased flushing can lead to clogs or overflows, especially if non-flushable items end up in the bowl.
Stick to septic-safe, single-ply toilet paper. Remind kids not to flush anything else. Keep a plunger visible in each bathroom for quick fixes if needed.
Shower Drain Blockage
Extra yard work, lake trips, and beach days bring more dirt and debris into your shower. Combined with sunscreen and soap, this can quickly lead to clogs.
Use a debris catcher over the drain to trap hair and solid material. Rinse off outside if you’ve been in sandy or muddy environments to keep grit out of your plumbing. Routine drain cleaning service can also prevent clogs before they become huge hassles.
Surprise Vacation Issues
If you’re heading to Flathead Lake or Yellowstone, protect your home while you’re away. A slow leak can cause major water damage in just a few days.
Shut off your main water supply before extended trips. Double-check that indoor and outdoor faucets are fully turned off so a small drip doesn’t turn into a flood.
Plumbing Inspections Equal Prevention
The best way to avoid summer plumbing headaches is to prepare for them. Schedule a yearly plumbing inspection with our team to catch issues early. We can identify small problems before they become big repairs.
If you’re not sure where to begin, ask about our summer plumbing tune-ups. We recommend annual maintenance to keep your plumbing system running smoothly all year long.
Contact a Reliable Plumber Today
Plumbing problems can cut into your summer plans. By practicing preventative care and scheduling routine inspections from a local plumber, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs.
At Wild West Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we’re a family-owned business proudly serving Kalispell and the surrounding areas since 1986. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or heading out on vacation, trust our team to keep your plumbing flowing.
Call Wild West Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today to schedule your next service.
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