Summer in the Pacific Northwest means backyard BBQs, family reunions, and friends dropping by for extended stays. As you freshen up guest rooms and stock the fridge, don’t forget one critical part of entertaining readiness: your plumbing system.
At Swift Plumbing & Heating, we know how important it is to keep your home’s kitchens and bathrooms running smoothly—especially when guests are involved. Before the doorbell rings and the party starts, here are seven essential plumbing tips to help you prepare your home for summer company.
1. Give Your Kitchen Sink Some TLC
Your kitchen is the heart of the home when guests arrive. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or brunch, your kitchen sink and garbage disposal are going to work overtime. Before the crowd rolls in:
- Check for leaks under the sink
- Clear slow drains with safe drain cleaning methods
- Avoid putting grease, bones, or fibrous foods down the disposal
If your garbage disposal smells funky or sounds loud, schedule a quick inspection. A few minutes of maintenance can prevent an embarrassing kitchen backup mid-party.
2. Check for Toilet Troubles
Few things disrupt the flow of a summer gathering like a finicky toilet. Walk through your home and:
- Test flush each toilet to ensure proper operation
- Listen for continuous running water (a sign of a faulty flapper or fill valve)
- Tighten loose handles or replace worn parts
If your guest bathroom is rarely used, give it a full test run before guests arrive. Small fixes now can save you from mid-visit plumbing headaches later.
3. Test Water Pressure in Showers & Sinks
Guests expect clean, comfortable showers—not weak trickles or inconsistent pressure. Low water pressure may be caused by mineral buildup, faulty aerators, or hidden leaks.
Clean showerheads and faucet aerators with vinegar to dissolve buildup. If that doesn’t help, Swift Plumbing & Heating can investigate deeper issues and restore strong, steady pressure.
4. Inspect for Leaks—Big or Small
Even small drips can cause big issues when your plumbing system is under pressure from extra usage. Look under sinks, around water heaters, and behind toilets for:
- Water stains
- Musty smells
- Pooling water or condensation
Leaks don’t fix themselves, and summer guests will only increase water use. Catching problems early can prevent water damage and costly repairs.
5. Flush Your Water Heater (Or Schedule It)
Hot water demand will spike with guests showering and dishes piling up. If it’s been a while since your water heater was flushed, now’s the perfect time.
Flushing removes sediment that can reduce efficiency and water temperature. Not sure how? Let Swift Plumbing & Heating handle it quickly and safely.
6. Ensure Outdoor Spigots Are Leak-Free
Planning to fill kiddie pools, water the garden, or connect a hose for summer cleanup? Check outdoor spigots for cracks or drips—especially if they weren’t used all winter.
If you find any signs of frost damage or leakage, have them repaired before summer use ramps up.
7. Have an Emergency Plan (Just in Case)
No one plans for plumbing emergencies during a party—but they happen. Make sure you know where the main water shut-off valve is, and keep our number handy for urgent help.
At Swift Plumbing & Heating, we offer responsive service and expert repairs so you can focus on enjoying your guests—not mopping up water.
Contact Swift Plumbing & Heating today for plumbing service. Pride & Professionalism!
