When most Idahoans think about summer, plumbing problems probably don’t make the list. But just like how your HVAC system works harder in July and August, your plumbing system can also experience stress from the intense summer heat and increased water usage.
At Advanced Home Services, we’ve seen firsthand how summer weather conditions in southeast Idaho—from Idaho Falls to Pocatello—can create unique plumbing issues for homeowners. If you’ve ever had a pipe burst during an unexpected heatwave or noticed your water bill spike during peak lawn-watering season, you’re not alone.
Here’s how the summer heat can affect your plumbing system—and what you can do to protect your home this season.
1. Increased Water Demand Puts Extra Pressure on Pipes
Summer in southeast Idaho often means more outdoor activities, watering lawns and gardens, filling pools, and longer showers after dusty hikes or outdoor chores. All of this adds up to a major increase in water usage.
Your plumbing system may be running near full capacity for days or even weeks at a time. Older pipes or systems that haven’t had recent maintenance may struggle to keep up. That constant pressure can lead to leaks, pipe joint stress, and decreased water pressure. If increased water use is straining your system, these warning signs may appear:
- Small drips around fixtures or fittings
- Water stains on walls, ceilings, or under sinks
- Low water pressure or sluggish performance from faucets and showers
A mid-summer plumbing inspection can help spot these vulnerabilities before they lead to major damage.
2. Pipe Expansion from Heat
Idaho’s dry summer heat doesn’t just warm up your yard—it heats up your home’s plumbing, too. Pipes exposed to direct sunlight (like those in attics or exterior walls) can expand with the rising temperatures. Over time, this can weaken connections and cause hairline cracks or breaks.
Outdoor hose bibs, irrigation lines, and other exterior plumbing features are especially vulnerable. If these pipes haven’t been maintained or insulated properly, extreme heat can warp fittings or cause cracking—leading to slow leaks or even sudden bursts.
If your home has PVC or plastic plumbing components, they’re especially prone to softening and shifting under high temperatures. That’s why we recommend having your system inspected annually—especially if your home is older or has never had its plumbing updated.
3. Sewer Line Problems
Summer heat can cause the ground to shift as it dries out and contracts. These subtle movements may crack or offset old sewer lines—especially if they’re already weakened by tree roots or corrosion. Here in Idaho Falls and surrounding areas, many homes still rely on aging sewer lines made of clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg pipe, which means they may be more susceptible to these issues.
In addition to ground shifting, tree roots grow more aggressively in the summer while they search for water. Sewer lines provide the perfect source. Roots can infiltrate small cracks in the pipe and expand quickly, leading to severe clogs, backups, or pipe collapse. If your toilets are gurgling, or you smell sewage around your yard or drains, don’t ignore the signs—your main line could be in trouble.
Scheduling a camera inspection can help detect root growth, misalignments, and blockages before they turn into an expensive emergency.
4. Water Heater Overload
While summer might not seem like the time for water heater issues, it’s actually more common than many realize. With kids home from school, guests visiting, and more frequent showers or laundry loads, your hot water usage often goes up significantly in the summer.
If your water heater is older or undersized, it might struggle to keep up with the increased usage—especially in homes with large families or high water demands. This strain can accelerate sediment buildup, especially in southeast Idaho where we deal with hard water. That sediment settles in the bottom of your tank, reducing efficiency and forcing the system to work harder (and use more energy).
To prevent early wear and tear, make sure to flush your water heater at least once a year. Better yet, let our professionals handle it for you—especially if you haven’t done it in a while or aren’t sure how.
5. Sprinkler System Leaks and Backflow Issues
With lawns, gardens, and trees relying on frequent watering during our dry summers, sprinkler systems get a heavy workout. Underground lines and sprinkler heads can develop leaks due to heat stress or shifting soil. Even a small leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water per month—and drive up your utility bill.
Backflow preventers also need special attention during the summer. If you haven’t had yours inspected or tested, there’s a risk that contaminated water could flow backward into your home’s water supply. This is especially important for homes with garden hoses, sprinkler systems, or any kind of outdoor irrigation.
At Advanced Home Services, we can perform backflow testing and sprinkler system leak detection to help keep your outdoor plumbing in top shape all season.
6. Clogged Drains and Garbage Disposals
Summer barbecues and family gatherings often mean more food prep, more dishes, and—unfortunately—more opportunities for kitchen sink clogs. Grease, starchy foods like potato peels and corn husks, and fibrous produce can wreak havoc on your kitchen drain or garbage disposal.
Disposals can easily overheat or jam if overloaded or used improperly. To avoid problems, always run plenty of cold water while using your disposal and avoid dumping grease, oils, or fibrous foods down the drain.
If you do run into slow drainage, avoid chemical drain cleaners—they can corrode your pipes and create bigger issues down the road. Instead, call a professional plumber for a safe and lasting solution.
Protect Your Plumbing with a Summer Plumbing Check-Up
Just like you should schedule HVAC maintenance before summer, your plumbing system deserves the same attention. We can help you:
- Spot early signs of pipe stress or leaks
- Inspect sewer lines for tree root intrusion
- Flush your water heater to improve efficiency
- Test your sprinkler and irrigation lines for leaks
- Ensure your backflow prevention is working correctly
A proactive plumbing inspection now can save you time, money, and stress while temperatures are at their peak.
Trust Your Local Idaho Plumbing Experts
At Advanced Home Services, we’ve been helping homeowners throughout Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Blackfoot, Rexburg, and nearby communities for over two decades. We know what southeast Idaho summers can do to your plumbing, and we’re here to help you stay ahead of any issues.
If your home’s plumbing system hasn’t been inspected in over a year, or if you’ve noticed strange signs like water spots, slow drains, or higher-than-normal water bills, it’s time to take action. Contact us today to schedule a plumbing inspection or service appointment—and enjoy peace of mind all summer long.