Summer is a beautiful time in Washington state. The skies are clear, the weather warms up, and homeowners across Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and beyond start prepping their homes for BBQs, gardening, and outdoor adventures. But amidst all the sunshine, summer also brings unique plumbing challenges that every homeowner should be aware of.
Whether you live in a century-old craftsman home in Capitol Hill or a newer suburban build in Redmond, these five summer plumbing tips for 2025 will help you protect your home, save money, and avoid mid-season emergencies. Let’s dive in.
1. Check and Maintain Your Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs
Why It Matters in Washington:
After a long winter (and possibly a chilly spring), your outdoor faucets might have suffered from freezing or cracks. Washington’s freeze-thaw cycles are known to cause minor leaks that go unnoticed until summer arrives and you start watering your garden or filling the kiddie pool.
What You Should Do:
• Inspect for leaks. Turn on the faucet and check for drips near the hose bib or connection point. Even a small leak can waste hundreds of gallons over a season.
• Use a backflow preventer. Washington State plumbing code recommends installing a backflow preventer to keep contaminants from flowing into your home’s drinking water supply.
• Add hose timers. Automating your irrigation with timers can reduce water waste and help keep your garden healthy during dry spells.
Pro Tip: If your outdoor faucet is leaking inside the wall, you may not see it until it causes water damage. Call a licensed plumber to inspect for hidden damage if something feels off.
2. Inspect and Clear Your Sewer Lines – Especially If You Have Older Pipes
Why It Matters in Washington:
Many Seattle-area homes were built before the 1980s and have aging clay or cast iron pipes that are susceptible to root intrusion. Tree roots grow aggressively during the summer as they seek out moisture — and your sewer lines are a prime target.
What You Should Do:
• Schedule a camera inspection. Local plumbers in Washington offer camera inspections to detect cracks or blockages early.
• Look out for warning signs. Slow drains, gurgling toilets, or sewage smells are all red flags.
• Consider hydro jetting. If buildup or roots are a recurring issue, hydro jetting can clean out your pipes thoroughly without chemicals.
Pro Tip: If your home is surrounded by large trees, schedule inspections every 2–3 years — or annually for peace of mind.
3. Flush Your Water Heater (Yes, Even in Summer!)
Why It Matters in Washington:
Sediment buildup from our state’s varied water sources — especially if you’re on well water in Eastern Washington — can lower the efficiency of your water heater. While most people think of this as a winter chore, summer is the perfect time to flush it without disrupting your comfort.
What You Should Do:
• Turn off power and water supply to your heater.
• Drain a few gallons into a bucket to inspect sediment levels.
• Flush completely if the water looks dirty or cloudy.
Bonus Tip: Set your heater’s temperature to 120°F for energy savings without sacrificing comfort. This is also safer for children and older adults.
4. Test Your Sump Pump and Check for Basement Leaks
Why It Matters in Washington:
You might not associate summer with basement flooding, but Washington’s heavy thunderstorms and fast snow melts can occur as late as June. If you live in areas like Bellevue, Olympia, or near flood zones, a working sump pump is a must.
What You Should Do:
• Pour a bucket of water into the pit to make sure the pump activates.
• Check the backup power supply if you have one.
• Inspect for moisture, musty smells, or discoloration around basement walls and floors.
Pro Tip: Add a water alarm near your sump pit to alert you instantly if there’s a problem.
5. Save Water With Smart Plumbing Upgrades
Why It Matters in Washington:
Washington frequently faces summer drought conditions, and municipalities often implement water usage restrictions. This means every drop counts — both for your wallet and the environment.
What You Should Do:
• Install low-flow fixtures. Look for EPA WaterSense-labeled toilets, faucets, and showerheads.
• Upgrade to a smart irrigation controller to avoid overwatering your lawn.
• Repair small leaks immediately. A single dripping faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons a year.
Eco Tip: Ask your plumber about greywater recycling systems — an increasingly popular option for environmentally conscious Washington homes.
Final Thoughts: Summer Plumbing Checklist for Washington Homeowners (2025)
Before summer heats up, use this quick checklist:
✅ Check outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks
✅ Schedule a sewer line inspection if you live in an older home
✅ Flush your water heater
✅ Test your sump pump (especially if you’re in a flood zone)
✅ Make at least one eco-upgrade to your plumbing system
Staying proactive with your plumbing doesn’t just prevent costly repairs — it keeps your Washington home running efficiently all summer long.
Need a Local Plumber in Washington?
At NW Plumbers, we list only verified professionals across the state — from Bellingham to Vancouver. If you need someone to inspect your sewer lines, flush your water heater, or install a water-saving fixture, browse our directory or use our Washington Plumbing Coupons page to save on your next service.
Share This Guide
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or family who own homes in Washington. A few simple tips can save thousands in repairs — and help everyone enjoy a stress-free summer.
Stay cool, stay proactive — and keep that plumbing flowing!
