As the temperatures rise across Maryland and Virginia, your plumbing system might be under more stress than you think. Increased water usage, heat-related expansion, and even summer storms can all lead to problems if you’re not prepared.
Here’s what to watch out for and how to stay ahead of costly plumbing issues:
Top Summer Plumbing Problems
1. Sewer Line Backups
Heavy summer rainstorms can overwhelm municipal sewer systems and lead to backups in your home — especially in older neighborhoods in Baltimore, Alexandria, and Arlington. Tree roots also grow more aggressively in the summer and may infiltrate sewer lines.
What to do: Schedule a sewer line inspection and consider installing a backwater valve to protect your home.
2. Clogged Garbage Disposals
Summer cookouts mean more food waste—and too much of it ends up in the disposal. Items like corn husks, melon rinds, and greasy leftovers can clog or damage your disposal system.
What to do: Only put soft, non-fibrous food scraps in the disposal and run cold water before and after each use.
3. Washing Machine Overload
Kids are home, guests are visiting, and laundry piles up. Extra loads strain your washing machine hoses, which could crack or leak.
What to do: Inspect hoses for wear and tear. Consider replacing rubber hoses with braided stainless steel for better durability.
4. Sprinkler System Leaks
Lawn irrigation systems are in full use during summer. A broken sprinkler head or underground leak can lead to skyrocketing water bills and soggy yards.
What to do: Turn on your sprinkler system and walk the yard, checking for pooling water or weak spots. Call a plumber if something seems off.
5. Increased Water Bill
With kids home, gardens growing, and pools filling, your water usage naturally goes up. But a sudden spike could mean there’s a hidden leak.
What to do: Monitor your monthly bill. If it jumps unexpectedly, have a plumber check for silent leaks in your toilets, pipes, or outdoor lines.
Stay Ahead with Preventive Maintenance
Summer’s a great time to schedule a plumbing inspection and fix small issues before they turn into major headaches. Many plumbing companies in Maryland and Northern Virginia offer seasonal maintenance deals — take advantage before peak demand hits.By staying proactive and aware of these seasonal plumbing issues, homeowners in Maryland and Virginia can avoid mid-summer disasters — and keep their systems running smoothly when it matters most.