Summer in Colorado means backyard barbecues, lush gardens, and plenty of time spent outdoors. But it also means your home’s outdoor plumbing systems are about to get a serious workout. From sprinkler systems running constantly to outdoor spigots getting used for everything from filling pools to washing cars, everything takes a beating when the weather heats up.
If you don’t get ahead of things, minor issues can snowball into costly plumbing emergencies. We’re talking water damage, hefty repair bills, and the kind of headaches that can ruin your summer plans. The good news? A few simple checks and maintenance tasks can keep everything flowing smoothly all season long.
Whether you’re handy with DIY projects or prefer to call in the best plumber in Colorado Springs, CO, here’s how to get your outdoor plumbing ready for a busy summer ahead.
Check Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs for Leaks
Colorado winters are tough on outdoor plumbing. Those freezing temperatures can crack pipes and fittings, creating hidden leaks that only show up when you turn the water back on in spring. You might not notice the damage until you’re dealing with soggy landscaping or water seeping into your basement.
Start by inspecting all your exterior faucets. Look for obvious drips, corrosion around the fittings, or loose connections that wobble when you touch them. Don’t just check the outside either. Turn on each spigot and take a walk through your basement or crawl space to make sure water isn’t leaking inside your walls.
Even a small drip can waste hundreds of gallons over the summer and cause serious damage to your siding, foundation, or landscaping. Catching these issues early means you can fix them before they turn into expensive problems. Plus, you’ll save money on your water bill and avoid the frustration of dealing with soggy yard areas all summer.
Inspect and Test Your Sprinkler System
Your sprinkler system is about to work overtime, so now’s the time to make sure it’s up to the task. Run through each zone and watch for broken heads, obvious leaks, or spray patterns that look off. You’d be surprised how many homeowners waste water all summer because of a few broken sprinkler heads they never bothered to check.
Walk around your yard and look for unusually soggy patches, especially areas that seem wet even when the sprinklers haven’t been running. These could indicate underground leaks that are not only wasting water but could also undermine your landscaping or even your home’s foundation over time.
Clean out any clogged nozzles and adjust spray angles so you’re watering your lawn, not your driveway or sidewalk. A properly maintained sprinkler system will keep your grass looking great while keeping your water bills reasonable. It’s amazing how much money you can save just by making sure your lawn sprinklers are hitting the right spots.
Prepare Outdoor Drains and Sewer Lines
Summer storms in Colorado can be intense, and if your outdoor drains are clogged up, you’re asking for trouble. Standing water around your home’s foundation is never good, and blocked drains can cause water to back up into places you really don’t want it.
Take a walk around your property and clear out any debris from drain grates, downspouts, and yard drains. We’re talking leaves, dirt, grass clippings, and whatever else has accumulated over the winter and spring. It’s not glamorous work, but it’s way better than dealing with flooded patios or basements later.
If you have older sewer lines, consider having them inspected with a camera. Tree roots love to invade sewer lines during the growing season, and catching this early can save you from nasty backups during summer storms. Trust me, you don’t want to find out about root intrusion when your basement starts flooding during a thunderstorm.
Check Outdoor Appliances and Water Features
If you’ve got outdoor kitchens, outdoor grills with water lines, fountains, or ponds, give all those connections a thorough inspection. Look for loose fittings, corroded connections, or any signs of wear that could turn into leaks when you start using them regularly.
Check all your flexible hoses too. These take a beating from UV exposure and temperature changes, and they tend to fail right when you need them most. Replace any hoses that have cracks, splits, or feel stiff and brittle. It’s cheaper to replace a hose now than to deal with water damage later.
Don’t forget about outdoor showers or pool plumbing if you have them. Test everything for leaks and make sure water pressure is where it should be. There’s nothing worse than planning a pool party only to discover your pool plumbing has issues that need professional attention.
Enjoy Summer Without Plumbing Surprises
Summer should be about enjoying your yard and spending time with family, not scrambling to fix plumbing disasters. Taking the time now to inspect and maintain your outdoor plumbing systems will save you headaches and money down the road.
Most of these tasks are pretty straightforward, but don’t hesitate to call in a professional if you spot something that looks beyond your skill level. Simple maintenance like checking faucets and clearing drains can make a huge difference in keeping your home running smoothly all season long.
A little preparation goes a long way toward helping you enjoy everything Colorado summers have to offer without worrying about plumbing problems. Your future self will thank you when you’re relaxing in your backyard instead of dealing with water damage and emergency repair bills.
