6 Ways to Prevent Water Pipes Burst in Summer
Avoiding Water Pipes Burst in the Summer Months
We all have heard stories about water pipes bursting in winter due to frigid temperature outside. However, if you think a pipe bursting can occur only in winter, then you are mistaken. Water pipes can also rupture in summer, if proper care is not taken. Summer can cause some serious issues in your water pipeline, so it is important to pay attention to avoid damage to the pipes.
Here is what you need to know about what can cause your water pipes to burst in the summer and what you can do to prevent them from bursting.
What Can Cause Water Pipes to Burst in Summer?
Water pipes in the summer can burst for the following reasons:
- Extreme heat
- Increase of hard water inside pipes
- Incorrectly installed pipes
- Build up of rust and corrosion
- Clogged pipes
- Invasive tree roots
- Old repairs
What Preventive Measures Can You Take to Stop Pipes from Bursting in Summer?
Pipe burst can bring a lot of inconvenience and expenses. No one wants to deal with messes, damages and expenses caused by bursting pipes. Here are some things that you can do to avoid pipe bursting in summer.
1. Add a protective layer to your pipes
The rays from the sun in summer are extremely harsh. The UV rays falling directly on the exposed pipes can make them weak and more prone to get damaged. To protect your pipes from harmful rays, add a layer of a light-coloured acrylic paint or insulate them with appropriate material made for outdoor water pipes.
2. Make sure they are aligned
When there is excessive heat for a prolonged time with no rain, the soil under your home can dry out and can cause shifts in the foundation of your home. Over time, these small shifts can accumulate and may cause your water lines to go out of alignment, which can result in the pipe burst. You should regularly inspect the area around your home’s exterior and basement to check for the signs of ground movements.
3. Perform a routine checkup
The best way to avoid pipe bursting in summer is to check them on a regular basis. Regularly inspect your pipes for any damage, leakage or blockage. If there seems to be any problem with the pipes, try to repair them as soon as possible before they turn into a serious problem. The more often you examine your pipes, the less likely they will be at the risk of exploding and flooding your home.
4. Stop growing roots
Some trees and landscaping tend to grow in warm summer months. Their roots expand and can wrap around the pipes. This can invade your main sewer pipeline and cause water pipes to break apart. If you see roots growing around your sewer system, cut down the roots or install physical barriers between pipes and the roots. Call an emergency plumber right away if you see even a small quantity of water backing into your basement through wall joints. It doesn’t take much time before your basement is over-flooded and, moulds starting to grow.
5. Use water softener
Homeowners living in or around hard water area are at higher risk of water clogging due to the significant amount of mineral present in the water. Over time, these deposits build up inside the pipe and restrict the flow. When the water pressure exceeds more than the pipe can withstand, it can cause the pipe to explode. Using a water softener is an effective method to reduce the mineral content from the water and prevent water clogging.
6. Cut off the water supply if you are going on a vacation
Summer is a great time to go on vacation and if you are planning to take one, it is important to take care of the water pipes when you are away. When you are out for a long time, the water pipes are left unattended and small leaks may go unnoticed. When the weather is extremely hot, the breaks may gradually grow. Hence, make sure you cut the water supply, so you don’t get surprised by the flooded home due to pipe burst when you are back.
Monitoring your water pipes
It is important to regularly monitor your water pipes and check for any signs of wear and tear. If you suspect anything unusual, such as leaks, discolouration or strange noises, contact a 24 hour emergency city plumbing near me. That is because no matter how small the issue is, if not addressed in time, it can turn into a serious problem. Not only it can cause extensive damage, but also pose a health risk if the water is contaminated.
Conclusion
Summer is a great time of the year for celebrating all things outdoors. While you have fun in the sun, make sure your plumbing systems are cool to avoid any water related issues, like a pipe burst. Despite all your efforts if the pipe burst, you have to be prepared for the mess. The first thing you need to do is turn off the main water supply and drain all your faucets. If the leak has occurred in an area with a number of electrical devices, it is advisable to disconnect the devices to avoid any electrical hazard.
If the water pipe issue is small, you can burst pipe repair London on your own, but if the damage seems considerable, it is advisable that you contact an emergency plumber in London. Hiring a professional is highly recommended who can help you prevent further damage to the pipe system.