Top 3 Outdoor Plumbing Problems and What to Do About Them

Summer is in full swing, and we are all enjoying more time outside. That means more landscaping, more time in the pool, and more other activities that will make use of your outdoor plumbing fixtures.

As with indoor plumbing issues, outdoor plumbing issues can end up costing you a lot of money on your water bills due to wasted water, result in a lot of damage to your property and be expensive to repair. Here are a few examples of the top 3 outdoor plumbing issues and what steps you can take.

Outdoor faucets & hoses

The most common issues are with outdoor faucets. Since they are exposed to extreme weather and temperatures, they are more susceptible to damage and wear.  Leaks and cracks can be serious because they can have an impact on the water supply to the outside portion of your house. Replacing these fixtures yourself isn’t a good idea. Call a plumber for help. Leaks may develop over time just with general use. Normally this will be a rubber seal that goes brittle or a problem with a washer. The good news is these are relatively easy to repair if you have the right tools and parts. The sun takes a heavy toll on hoses too, so try and keep them neatly stored in reels to have them in peak condition, ready to go.

Sewer blockages

If you have a blockage in the sewer line leading from your house to the municipal sewerage system, you might notice bad smells or wet, saturated spots in your yard. These blockages could be caused by improper disposal of items that shouldn’t go down the drain or by tree roots from growing out and blocking the sewer pipes underground. You’ll need a certified plumber to come out and find and remove the blockage to repair the issue. This is something you’re going to need to have done quickly, as the longer you let it sit, the worse (and more expensive) it will get.

Sprinkler problems

If you have an underground sprinkler system on your property, it’s important you pay attention to how things are supposed to operate to avoid having to perform major repairs. Sprinkler heads and other parts of the system can easily get damaged, especially with our harsh Canadian winters. Small leaks may also develop through general wear and tear over time. If you notice any leaks, you should avoid using the sprinkler system until you can get it repaired. This will likely require the services of a plumber or a technician who installed the system on your property.

For more information about some of the most common issues that occur with outdoor plumbing or to arrange for an inspection, contact one of our experienced plumbers from PipeMasters today: info@pipemasters.ca or (289) 404-9063. PipeMasters is part of Oakridge Plumbing Ontario Ltd. and serves the East GTA, Durham Region, North to Lindsay & Peterborough, out to Cobourg and all points in between. All Rights Reserved.