Unlike other parts of the country, summer in Florida can be a time of year when you tend to stay inside more. However, this doesn’t mean that summer doesn’t create its own issues for your Florida home’s plumbing system.
Summer activities such as having the kids home from school, an increase in extended visits from family members, and hosting a barbecue or party can all cause added strain on your plumbing system. Let’s go over 5 common plumbing issues we tend to see this time of year that warrant a call for plumbing service in Orlando, FL.
1. Clogged or Broken Garbage Disposal
It doesn’t matter if you head outside or stay inside during the heat of summer: it’s still the season where barbecues, summer parties, and 4th of July celebrations are held. It’s also the time of year when you eat foods you don’t normally eat at other times of the year such as corn on the cob, chicken wings, ribs, potato salad, pasta salad, and watermelon.
Unfortunately, all of these are foods where the remnants should never make their way down your kitchen sink. Potato peels, bones, watermelon rinds, corn cobs, and egg shells can and will wreak havoc on your kitchen sink drain and garbage disposal. Remind guests and family members that those items should definitely go in the garbage, not in the garbage disposal.
2. Blocked Toilets
When the kids are home for the summer or you’re hosting family members for a week or two, your home’s toilets will see a lot more usage. It’s also an opportunity for things to be put down the toilet that shouldn’t go there.
A bored child could flush toys down the toilet. A well-meaning houseguest could also flush something like a wet wipe, paper towel, or Q-tip down the toilet. Any of these things could potentially result in a backed-up or clogged toilet. If a plunger isn’t enough to fix the problem, you’ll need to call a professional plumber to dislodge serious clogs.
3. Slow or Clogged Shower Drains
Florida homeowners often experience slow-draining showers in the summer. The hot, humid weather can cause you to shower more than once a day. If your family enjoys going to the beach, it’s common to bring back sand and greasy sunscreen.
All this extra usage combined with sand and dirt can lead to a clog or complete blockage in your showers. You should never rinse off sandy beach shoes, chairs, and coolers in your shower. If possible, use a hose to rinse these items off outside to avoid bringing them into your home.
4. Washing Machine and Dishwasher Issues
Your washing machine and dishwasher are likely to experience an increase in the number of loads they’re expected to handle. All this extra use can wreak havoc on dishwasher or washing machine drains or supply lines that are already having issues. If it’s an issue with the drain lines and not the appliances, give us a call. We’re experienced in handling all sorts of plumbing issues you may run into this summer.
Contact Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule plumbing service in Orlando, FL today!
