At V-Max Plumbing, we understand that summer in Torrance means more than sunshine and barbecues—it also means increased demand on your home’s plumbing system.
From outdoor faucets getting a daily workout to kids (and guests) taking extra showers, your pipes, drains, and appliances work harder this time of year. That’s why now is the perfect time to make sure everything is in top shape.
As your local Torrance plumbing experts, we’ve seen what summer wear and tear can do.
Here are our essential summer plumbing tips to help you prevent costly repairs, reduce water waste, and enjoy peace of mind all season long.
1. Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Garden Hoses
With outdoor watering and cleaning in full swing, your hose bibs and spigots become some of the most frequently used fixtures in summer. But after months of disuse, they’re also some of the most vulnerable to leaks.
Check each outdoor faucet for drips or cracks. If you turn on the water and notice leaking from the spigot or hose connection, that could mean a worn-out washer or even winter freeze damage that went unnoticed.
Tighten connections, replace washers if needed, and consider installing a hose bib vacuum breaker for added protection against backflow.
And if your hose is leaking at the base or spraying water where it shouldn’t, it might be time to replace it. Minor leaks can lead to hundreds of gallons wasted over a single season.
2. Check for Leaks Inside the Home
Leaks don’t take a vacation—especially in summer when plumbing systems are working harder than ever. Check under sinks, around toilets, behind your washing machine, and along baseboards for any signs of water damage, moisture, or mildew.
Even a slow drip can spike your water bill and cause long-term damage to cabinets and flooring. At V-Max Plumbing, we often find that small, hidden leaks go unnoticed until they become major (and expensive) issues. Early detection is key.
3. Keep an Eye on Water Pressure
We know how satisfying a strong shower feels—but excessively high water pressure can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. It puts strain on pipes, fixtures, and appliances, increasing the risk of leaks and shortening their lifespan.
Use a water pressure gauge on an outdoor spigot to check your home’s PSI. The ideal range is between 40 and 80 psi. If yours is over 80, you may need a pressure regulator adjustment—or a new regulator entirely.
We can help assess and install the right solution to keep your system safe.
4. Be Drain-Smart During Summer Gatherings
With more time spent at home—and more guests using your kitchen and bathrooms—your drains can get overloaded quickly. Make sure to avoid sending grease, oils, starchy foods, or fibrous scraps down the garbage disposal.
These can clog your pipes faster than you think, especially if buildup is already present.
Use drain strainers in sinks and showers to catch hair, food bits, and debris. If you notice slow drains or odors, it might be time for a professional drain cleaning to clear things out before a backup ruins your weekend.
5. Give Your Water Heater a Check-Up
Even in warm months, your water heater works hard. Increased shower use, laundry loads, and dishwashing can overwork a tank that’s already near the end of its lifespan.
That’s why summer is a great time to flush your water heater and remove sediment buildup that affects performance and energy efficiency.
You should also check the thermostat—120°F is the sweet spot for both safety and cost savings. And if your system is over 10 years old or showing signs of rust, leaks, or reduced output, we can recommend the best replacement for your home’s needs.
6. Inspect and Tune Up Sprinkler Systems
Efficient irrigation saves both water and money. Broken or misaligned sprinkler heads waste gallons every day, often without homeowners realizing it.
Walk your yard while the system is running and check for:
- Sprinklers that spray the sidewalk or house
- Heads that don’t pop up correctly
- Areas of the yard that look overly soggy or bone dry
We can help optimize your irrigation system for even coverage and minimal waste—especially important as Torrance and California continue focusing on water conservation.
7. Schedule a Summer Plumbing Inspection
At V-Max Plumbing, we always say: preventive care beats emergency repair. A professional inspection can uncover small issues before they turn into big headaches, from slow leaks to early signs of pipe corrosion or valve failure.
Our inspections include checking water pressure, inspecting visible pipes, testing valves, examining the water heater, and ensuring your entire system is operating efficiently.
You’ll get peace of mind and professional recommendations tailored to your home’s unique plumbing setup.
Call V-Max Plumbing for Expert Summer Prep
As a trusted, family-owned plumbing company right here in Torrance, V-Max Plumbing is proud to help local homeowners prepare their systems for every season—especially summer.
Whether you need leak repairs, a system inspection, drain cleaning, or help upgrading aging fixtures, our licensed technicians are just a call away.
We offer honest advice, 24/7 emergency service, and solutions that fit your budget. Call us today or schedule online to get your summer plumbing checklist off to a strong start.
