Summer in San Diego means sunshine, cookouts, and more time spent at home with family and friends. But warmer temperatures and increased water usage can also place added stress on your plumbing system. At California Plumbing, we want to help you stay ahead of seasonal issues and avoid costly repairs. Here are three essential summer plumbing tips to keep your home running smoothly all season long.

1. Check Your Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures

Warmer months mean more time outside—and more use of outdoor plumbing. From garden hoses and sprinklers to pool lines and outdoor showers, these systems often go unused for months during the cooler seasons. Before ramping up your water use, give your exterior fixtures a quick check:

Inspect hose bibs and spigots: Turn on outdoor faucets and look for leaks or drips, which can waste gallons of water over time.
Check for cracks in hoses or connections: Replace any damaged hoses or fittings to avoid water damage or low pressure.
Examine irrigation lines: If you have a sprinkler system, test each zone and repair any broken heads or clogged lines.

Leaks or broken outdoor fixtures aren’t just inconvenient—they can also drive up your water bill. A quick inspection now can prevent big problems later.

2. Prevent Sewer Line Backups

Summer is a peak season for sewer issues in San Diego, particularly in areas like Chula Vista and Oceanside with older infrastructure and mature landscaping. Tree roots are especially active during warm months, and they can infiltrate sewer lines through small cracks or joints, causing blockages and backups.

To avoid a messy and expensive sewer issue this summer:

Schedule a sewer camera inspection to detect early signs of intrusion or damage.
Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper—even wipes labeled “flushable” can clog your main sewer line.
Don’t pour grease or oil down your drain, as it can solidify in your pipes and create blockages.

If you notice slow drains, foul odors, or frequent toilet backups, contact California Plumbing for fast, expert sewer and drain service before it turns into an emergency.

3. Watch for Water Heater Stress

While winter gets all the attention when it comes to water heater breakdowns, summer isn’t always stress-free. Increased hot water demand—thanks to houseguests, laundry, and outdoor activities—can strain your system, especially if your water heater is older or undermaintained.

Here’s how to make sure your water heater is summer-ready:

Flush your tank: Sediment buildup from San Diego’s hard water can reduce efficiency and cause overheating. Flushing removes this buildup and extends your unit’s lifespan.
Check the temperature setting: It should be between 120–125°F for safe and energy-efficient operation.
Listen for strange noises: Banging or popping sounds may indicate sediment buildup or a failing heating element.

If your system is more than 8–10 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement. We also offer energy-efficient tankless water heater installations for endless hot water on demand.

Stay Ahead of Plumbing Problems This Summer

Regular plumbing maintenance is the key to avoiding emergencies—especially during San Diego’s busy summer months. At California Plumbing, we’re here to help with expert inspections, repairs, and upgrades to keep your home running safely and efficiently.