Watch for Pipe Expansion and Ground Shifting

While we may not face freezing temperatures in our region, the intense summer heat can create its own set of plumbing problems. As temperatures rise, the soil surrounding your underground water lines expands and shifts. This movement places added stress on pipes, especially older or shallow ones, potentially causing them to crack, shift, or even rupture.

Why This Happens:

• Thermal expansion of soil and water lines increases pressure on underground systems.

• Drying and shrinking soil can cause misalignment in joints or movement in poorly supported pipes.

• Tree roots searching for moisture may infiltrate weakened or cracked pipe sections during drought-like conditions.

Signs of Heat-Related Pipe Stress: Keep an eye out for the following warning signals that could point to underground plumbing issues:

1. Sudden drop in water pressure – May indicate a partial break or blockage in the water line.

2. Unexplained wet spots in your yard – Especially around areas where pipes are buried.

3. Soil erosion or sinkholes – Small dips in your landscape could signal a hidden leak.

What to Do About It: Don’t wait for a small leak to become a major break. Follow these proactive steps to stay ahead of heat-related pipe damage:

1. Walk your property regularly – Look for visible signs of water seepage, erosion, or pooling.

2. Check for corrosion or cracks on any exposed outdoor plumbing or irrigation lines.

3. Monitor indoor pressure – If multiple fixtures are losing pressure, it’s time to investigate.

Reduce Strain on Your Water Supply

Summer may be the season for sunshine and relaxation, but it’s also one of the most demanding times of year for your home’s plumbing system. Increased water use from extra showers, laundry, outdoor activities, and irrigation can put your pipes and appliances under significant stress. Staying proactive can help you conserve water, prevent breakdowns, and keep your system running smoothly all season long.

Why Summer Water Usage Spikes:

• Hot weather means more frequent showers—especially for households with kids or outdoor workers.

• Outdoor watering and gardening become daily habits to keep landscaping healthy.

• More time at home means extra loads of laundry and dishes.

• Pools, sprinklers, and hose attachments all add to the demand on your plumbing system.

Tips to Reduce Strain on Your Water System:

1. Stagger Water-Intensive Tasks
Avoid overloading your plumbing system by spacing out your high-usage tasks:

• Run the dishwasher and washing machine at different times of day.

• Try to avoid showering while the laundry or sprinkler system is in use.

• This helps maintain consistent water pressure and reduces wear on pipes.

2. Fix Leaks Immediately
Even a small leak can cause big problems—especially during high-usage months:

• A faucet dripping once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons per year.

• Leaky hose bibs, running toilets, and dripping outdoor faucets should be addressed as soon as possible.

• Regularly check for moisture under sinks, around fixtures, or in your yard.

3. Use Water-Efficient Fixtures
Upgrading to low-flow options can significantly reduce daily water usage:

• Install low-flow showerheads and aerated faucets.

• Consider high-efficiency toilets and dishwashers to conserve water without sacrificing performance.

Check Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures

Summer is all about enjoying the outdoors—and that often means more demand on your outside water sources. From watering your lawn and garden to cleaning off muddy boots or sandy feet, your outdoor plumbing plays a big role in daily activities. Making sure everything is working properly before the hottest days hit can help you avoid frustrating surprises, unnecessary water waste, and expensive repairs.

Why It Matters:

• Outdoor fixtures are exposed to the elements year-round and can develop cracks, leaks, or clogs that go unnoticed until you need them most.

• A small leak at a hose bib or malfunctioning sprinkler head may not seem like a big deal, but over time, they can waste hundreds of gallons of water—and cost you on your utility bill.

• Keeping everything in good condition ensures your landscaping stays healthy and your home stays efficient through the summer.

What to Inspect and Why:

1. Hose Bibs and Spigots

• Turn on each outdoor faucet and watch for:

  • Water leaking from around the handle or at the connection point.

  • Drips or pooling around the base of the spigot.

  • Weak or sputtering water flow, which could indicate a clog or internal leak.

• Tighten or replace washers and gaskets as needed to stop leaks.

• Consider installing a hose bib vacuum breaker for added safety and backflow prevention.

2. Sprinkler Heads

• Run your sprinkler system and walk through your yard to observe:

  • Spray direction—heads should water grass and plants, not sidewalks or walls.

  • Even coverage—ensure no dry spots or overwatered puddles are forming.

  • Clogs or obstructions—remove grass, dirt, or mulch blocking heads.

  • Physical damage—replace cracked or broken nozzles.

3. Check for Pooling or Erosion

After watering, inspect your yard for:

• Unusual puddles or soggy areas that might indicate an underground leak.

• Soil erosion or runoff, which can wash away nutrients and expose pipes.

• If you notice consistent pooling near the same spot, it may be time to call The Plumbing Doc for a deeper inspection.

When it comes to plumbing, summer doesn’t take a vacation. Ignoring small issues now can lead to bigger headaches later. From rising utility bills to emergency repairs, it pays to be proactive.Stay ahead of the heat—and the stress—with help from The Plumbing Doc. Whether you need a full seasonal inspection, help with irrigation or outdoor leaks, or just want peace of mind, we’re here to keep things flowing all summer long.

Schedule your summer plumbing check today: 

👉 [https://theplumbingdoctorbakersfield.com/]