Summer in Washington County means warm days, backyard barbecues, and more time spent at home. But did you know that summer can also put unexpected stress on your plumbing system? At Oregon Plumbing, we’ve helped homeowners across Washington County prevent mid-season plumbing headaches with a few simple, preventative steps.

Here are our top five summer plumbing tips to keep everything flowing smoothly this season:

1. Be Kind to Your Garbage Disposal

Summer brings cookouts and fresh produce—but not everything belongs down the drain. Corn husks, watermelon rinds, grease, and fibrous vegetables can clog or damage your garbage disposal. When in doubt, compost it or toss it in the trash.

Tip: Run cold water before, during, and after using your disposal to help flush food waste down properly.

2. Check Outdoor Faucets and Hoses

With all the extra watering and outdoor activities, your hose bibs and outdoor spigots get a workout in the summer. Inspect for leaks or dripping connections, which can waste gallons of water and increase your bill.

Make sure garden hoses are tightly connected, and if you see pooling water around your foundation, that might be a sign of a hidden leak that needs a closer look.

3. Be Mindful of Water Usage During Peak Times

Increased summer water usage can put a strain on your plumbing system—especially if you have a family at home throughout the day. Try to stagger water-heavy activities (like laundry, dishwashing, and lawn watering) to avoid overloading your system or reducing water pressure.

Bonus: This also helps conserve water, which is always a win for our community.

4. Watch for Sewer Smells or Slow Drains

Dry conditions and higher usage can sometimes bring plumbing issues to the surface. If you start noticing sewer odors or slow-draining sinks and tubs, it may be time for a professional inspection to catch any issues early.

Addressing small problems now can help you avoid major disruptions during the hottest part of the year.

5. Flush Your Water Heater

Sediment build-up in your water heater can reduce efficiency and even shorten its lifespan. Summer is a great time to flush the tank and reset for the rest of the year—especially since hot water demand typically goes down during warmer months.

Not sure how to do it safely? Oregon Plumbing can take care of it quickly as part of a routine plumbing check-up.

Stay Ahead of Summer Plumbing Problems

Taking a few proactive steps now can help you avoid inconvenient (and costly) plumbing issues later. At Oregon Plumbing, we proudly serve homeowners across Washington County with honest, professional plumbing service.

If you’re experiencing any plumbing concerns or want to schedule preventative maintenance, give us a call. We’re here to keep your summer stress-free and your plumbing in top shape.

Oregon Plumbing
Proudly Serving Washington County and Surrounding Areas
www.oregonplumbingpro.com | (503) 547-4408