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Summer in Calgary may bring warm weather, long weekends, and backyard BBQs but it can also create hidden strain on your home’s plumbing system. Increased water usage, unpredictable weather, and even vacations can lead to costly plumbing issues if you’re not prepared.

Whether you're planning to host friends or head out on a summer road trip, knowing how to get your plumbing ready for summer in Calgary can save you stress, water damage, and hundreds of dollars in emergency calls. We’ll walk you through steps to summer-proof your home’s plumbing, so you can enjoy the season worry-free.

Start with a Full-Home Plumbing Inspection in Early Summer

Before the season kicks into full swing, book a professional plumbing inspection with a licensed Calgary plumber. This proactive check-up can help detect minor issues before they become major problems. Inspections typically include:

• Checking for hidden leaks behind walls or under sinks
  
  
• Inspecting outdoor hose bibs and sprinkler connections
  
  
• Testing water pressure levels
  
  
• Looking for signs of corrosion in pipes
  
  
• Reviewing hot water tank and sump pump functionality
  
  

Early summer is the perfect time because frozen pipe cracks and winter wear are more likely to show once temperatures rise.

What are the most common summer plumbing problems in Calgary?

Calgary summers come with a unique set of plumbing challenges. Here are some frequent ones homeowners face:

• Outdoor faucet leaks from winter freeze damage
  
  
• Sewer line backups caused by summer storms or tree root intrusion
  
  
• Clogged kitchen drains from summer hosting and grilling
  
  
• Sprinkler system leaks or inefficiencies
  
  
• High water bills from overuse and unnoticed leaks
  
  

Knowing what to expect can help you prevent and detect issues early before you need emergency plumbing services. Check and clean your outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems. If you haven’t already turned on your exterior faucets, do so now. Check for:

• Dripping or leaking spigots
  
  
• Signs of frost damage from the winter
  
  
• Water pooling around the base of the tap
  
  

Next, test your sprinkler or irrigation system. Look for broken heads, low pressure, or uneven watering, which may indicate underground leaks. Fixing these early helps avoid wasting water and keeps your garden thriving.

Should I adjust my hot water tank settings in the summer?

Yes, adjusting your hot water tank is a smart move in the summer months. Calgary’s warmer temperatures mean your water heater doesn’t need to work as hard. Lowering the temperature from 60°C to 49°C (the recommended safe setting in Canada) can:

• Reduce your energy bill
  
  
• Prevent scalding incidents
  
  
• Extend your tank’s lifespan
  
  

If your tank is 8–12 years old, this may also be a good time to assess whether a replacement or tankless upgrade would improve efficiency.

Clean Your Drains to Prevent Clogs Before Peak Usage

With more summer gatherings, BBQs, and kids at home, your kitchen and bathroom drains will get extra use. To prevent frustrating clogs:

• Avoid pouring grease down the sink
  
  
• Use a drain strainer to catch hair and food particles
  
  
• Run hot water with vinegar down your drains weekly
  
  
• Schedule a professional drain cleaning if you haven’t had one in the past year
  
  

Clogged drains don’t just slow you down—they can also cause pipe damage or nasty odours.

What should I do with my plumbing if I’m going on summer vacation?

If you're leaving Calgary for an extended summer trip, prepare your plumbing to avoid unpleasant surprises. Here’s your vacation plumbing checklist:

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1. Turn off the main water valve if you’ll be gone for more than a few days
   
   
2. Shut off your hot water tank or put it in vacation mode
   
   
3. Check that all taps are closed tightly
   
   
4. Clean your drains so nothing sits while you’re away
   
   
5. Have a friend or neighbour check your home in case of unexpected leaks
   
   

Preventative steps like these can save you thousands in water damage and emergency repairs.

Watch Your Water Bill for Signs of Hidden Leaks

Calgary’s dry summer climate often causes people to use more water, but that doesn’t always explain a spike in your bill. A sudden increase could be a sign of:

• A running toilet
  
  
• A dripping faucet
  
  
• A slab leak (in homes with in-floor heating)
  
  
• Leaky outdoor plumbing
  
  

Keep an eye on your utility bill. Even a small, consistent leak can waste hundreds of litres per week.

How can I save water during Calgary’s hot summer months?

Water conservation is critical in summer, not just for your wallet, but also for community sustainability. Here’s how you can save water without sacrificing comfort:

• Install low-flow fixtures in bathrooms and kitchens
  
  
• Use a rain barrel to water plants
  
  
• Run dishwashers and laundry machines only when full
  
  
• Water your lawn early in the morning or late at night
  
  
• Have a plumber fix any known leaks immediately‍

These small changes can have a big impact, especially during peak water usage months like July and August.

Should I schedule a seasonal service for my hot water tank and sump pump?

Summer is an ideal time to service appliances that are crucial during Calgary’s stormy season or before colder months arrive. A plumber can:

• Flush your hot water tank to remove sediment buildup
  
  
• Test and clean your sump pump to ensure it’s ready for summer storms
  
  
• Check expansion tanks, valves, and safety relief components
  
  
• Make efficiency recommendations based on your usage
  

Regular seasonal service extends the life of your equipment and helps avoid breakdowns.

Stay Proactive and Enjoy a Stress-Free Summer

Summer in Calgary is short, so don’t let plumbing problems ruin it. By preparing your home early, staying alert for warning signs, and booking preventative maintenance with a trusted local plumber, you can protect your home and peace of mind.

How can ERM Plumbing and Heating help you?

At ERM Plumbing and Heating, we offer maintenance services that keep your home in top shape all year long. Our expert technicians are trained to identify potential issues before they turn into costly problems. We offer a range of maintenance packages, including annual checkups that cover everything from air filter replacement to thorough inspections of your heating system. 

With our help, you can rest easy knowing that your systems are ready for summer. Contact ERM Plumbing and Heating today. Our team is ready to provide you expert service, get in touch with us today!

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