Plumbing isn’t just about what happens inside your walls. It’s also about how your home manages water during Edmonton’s infamous spring melts and torrential summer thunderstorms. For systems that have remained dormant throughout the winter months, dealing with a sudden influx of moisture can be a challenge.
Weiss-Johnson brings nearly 50 years of experience to the plumbing and HVAC industry here in Alberta. We’re proud to help Edmontonians create and protect their ideal spaces, and our licensed plumbers are here to support your plumbing needs all year round. Below, we’ll cover three of the most common seasonal plumbing failures that affect homeowners in early spring through late summer. Read on to learn more!
1. The Sump Pump: Your First Line of Defence
In many of Edmonton’s older neighbourhoods, having a sump pump is the most important mechanical component in your basement. During a heavy summer downpour, a failed pump can lead to thousands of dollars in foundation damage in under an hour. So, how can you tell if your sump pump is working?
- Do the Float Test: Debris can often settle in the sump pit over the winter, pinning the float switch down. We recommend a “bucket test” every spring: pour water into the pit to ensure the float rises and triggers the pump immediately.
- Discharge Management: Ensure your exterior discharge pipe isn’t blocked by mulch or spring growth. If the water can’t escape the pipe, the pump will “dead-head” and burn out.
2. Outdoor Faucets and “Hidden” Winter Damage
One of the most common calls we get in June is for a “basement leak” that only happens when the backyard hose is turned on. This is almost always a split in the frost-free hose bib caused by a hose being left attached during the previous winter.
3. Tree Roots and Sewer Line “Wake-Up”
As Edmonton’s flora begins to wake up in the spring, thirsty tree roots head straight for the nearest source of nutrient-rich water: your sewer line. In mature areas like Strathcona or Westmount, the shifting soil from the spring thaw can open tiny cracks in older clay pipes, allowing roots to enter and cause a total backup. If you notice gurgling sounds from your floor drain or multiple slow-moving fixtures, it’s time to get help ASAP to avoid major issues later on.
Improving Water Quality for the Summer
Beyond repairs, summer is the ideal time to assess your home’s water quality. With increased water usage for laundry and showers, many Edmontonians notice the effects of our “hard” city water more prominently. Installing a Water Softenercan protect your high-end appliances and faucets from scale buildup, which shortens their lifespan.
