Is your home silently leaking money down the drain?
With summer just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to ensure your plumbing system is ready for the season’s increased water demands.
Why May Is the Perfect Time for Plumbing Checks
As temperatures climb across Southeastern Michigan, our water usage typically doubles. From garden irrigation to cooling systems and more frequent laundry, summer puts extra pressure on your home’s plumbing. A thorough pre-season check now can prevent wasteful leaks when your water consumption – and bills – are at their highest.
Indoor Leak Detection: Where to Look
The Notorious Toilet
Did you know that a single leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day? Here’s a simple test anyone can do:
- Place a few drops of food coloring in your toilet tank
- Wait 10 minutes without flushing
- If color appears in the bowl, you’ve got a leak – likely a worn flapper that needs replacing
This five-minute check could save thousands of gallons of water this summer.
Faucets and Fixtures
Those seemingly innocent drips add up faster than you might think. A faucet dripping just once per second wastes over 3,000 gallons annually! Inspect all your home’s fixtures:
- Kitchen and bathroom faucets
- Showerheads
- Under-sink connections
- Appliance hoses (especially washing machines)
Look for mineral deposits, corrosion, or visible moisture – all telltale signs of existing or imminent leaks.
The Hidden Leaks You Might Miss
Not all water waste is obvious. Some of the most costly leaks lurk in places you rarely see:
Your Water Meter Tells All
The ultimate leak detection tool is already installed at your home. Here’s how to use it:
- Turn off all water-using appliances and fixtures
- Record your water meter reading
- Wait two hours without using any water
- Check the meter again
If the numbers have changed, water is escaping somewhere in your system.
Check Your AC Condensate Line
As your AC runs constantly during summer, it generates significant condensation that should drain properly. A clogged condensate line can cause water damage and create perfect conditions for mold growth.
Outdoor Plumbing: Preparing for Peak Season
Irrigation System Inspection
Before programming your sprinklers for the season, take time to:
- Inspect each sprinkler head for damage or clogging
- Look for puddles or unusually lush grass patches that might indicate underground leaks
- Run a test cycle to ensure proper coverage without wasteful overspray
Proper sprinkler maintenance alone can reduce outdoor water usage by up to 15%.
Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
Check all outdoor faucets and hose connections for:
- Frost damage or cracks
- Leaks when turned on
- Proper function of any attached backflow preventers
Don’t forget to inspect garden hoses for bulges, cracks, or leaks at connection points.
Upgrade for Efficiency: Small Changes, Big Savings
Consider these water-saving upgrades while preparing for summer:
Low-Flow Fixtures
Replacing older fixtures with WaterSense-labeled alternatives can reduce water use by 30% or more without sacrificing performance.
Smart Irrigation Controls
New smart irrigation controllers adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture. These systems can cut outdoor water use by up to 50% compared to conventional timers.
When to Call Us
While many leak checks are DIY-friendly, some situations call for our expert assistance:
- Unexplained increases in water bills
- Damp spots on walls or ceilings
- Water meter showing continuous usage
- Decreased water pressure throughout your home
- Any suspected leak in inaccessible pipes
Our skilled technicians at Lakeside Pro Services have the specialized equipment and experience to detect and repair even the most elusive leaks.
Save Water, Save Money, Save Time
A thorough pre-season plumbing check is an investment that pays dividends all summer long. Beyond the financial savings on water bills, you’ll conserve a precious natural resource and prevent costly water damage to your home.
Ready to make sure your plumbing system is summer-ready? Our team at Lakeside Pro Services specializes in thorough leak detection and repair across Southeastern Michigan and the Detroit area. Schedule your pre-season inspection today, or contact us at 586.445.2100 for priority service!