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Summertime in Florida is all about beach days, backyard barbecues, and plenty of sunshine. But while you’re enjoying the season, your plumbing system may be working harder than usual. Increased water use, summer storms, and everyday wear and tear can all add up to costly repairs if problems aren’t caught early. At Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve seen how Florida summers put stress on home plumbing. The good news? Many of these issues are preventable. Here are five common summer plumbing pitfalls to watch for—and what you can do to avoid having to call us for plumbing services in Brooksville.
Overworked Washing Machine Hoses
Beach towels, swimsuits, and sweaty summer clothes all mean more laundry than usual. That extra strain can push your washing machine to its limit, especially if you’re using older hoses. Rubber hoses become brittle over time, and the pressure of constant cycles can cause cracks or even sudden bursts.
Warning signs include: puddles around the washer, bulging hoses, or water spraying during cycles.
Prevention tip: Inspect your hoses regularly and replace them every 3–5 years, even if they look fine. Stainless steel braided hoses are a durable upgrade. And never overload your washer—it shortens the life of both the machine and its plumbing connections.
Slab Leaks in the Foundation
Many Florida homes are built on concrete slabs, which makes them especially vulnerable to underground leaks. Shifting soil, high water tables, and summer rainstorms can all put stress on the pipes beneath your foundation. Over time, those pipes may crack or corrode, creating what’s known as a slab leak.
Warning signs include: damp flooring, unexplained warm spots, the sound of running water when fixtures are off, or an unexplained spike in your water bill.
Prevention tip: While slab leaks can’t always be avoided, catching them early is key. If you notice signs of a hidden leak, call a professional for leak detection right away to minimize structural damage and repair costs.
Blocked Shower Drains From Sand & Sunscreen
After a day at the beach, it’s tempting to rinse off in the shower. Unfortunately, sand, sunscreen residue, and hair don’t mix well with plumbing. They often build up in shower and tub drains, leading to slow drainage and unpleasant clogs.
Warning signs include: standing water in the tub, gurgling sounds as water drains, or a sour odor near the drain.
Prevention tip: Rinse off outdoors when possible, and place a drain strainer in your showers to catch debris before it enters the pipes. A quick rinse outside can save you from costly drain cleaning later.
Well Pump Problems
For homeowners in rural parts of Florida, well pumps provide a steady supply of water. But in summer, heavy irrigation use for lawns and gardens can overwork your pump. Running sprinklers for hours at a time may cause the pump to overheat, cycle on and off too frequently, or even fail.
Warning signs include: low water pressure throughout the house, cloudy or dirty water, or unusual pump noises.
Prevention tip: Schedule a seasonal inspection to make sure your well pump is in good condition. Be mindful of irrigation schedules, and give your pump regular breaks to prevent burnout.
Keep Your Summer Plumbing in Check
While summer plumbing problems are common in Florida, most can be avoided with a little preventive care. Keeping an eye out for warning signs—and acting quickly when something seems off—can save you from bigger headaches and higher repair costs.
It’s No Sweat: Call Bayonet! Contact Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule plumbing services in Brooksville, FL today!