3 Plumbing Problems That Can Quickly Ruin This Summer’s Backyard Fun Fest

Don’t Let Your Summer Plans Get Washed Away By Outdoor Plumbing Issues!

Summer is finally here, and it’s time to get the party started. Backyard barbecues, lounging by the pool, basking in the warm sunshine… there’s nothing quite like it. The days of summer are just beginning, and there’s plenty more fun to be had. But when the perfectly kept lawn suddenly turns into a swamp or the slip-and-slide goes dry after the garden faucet stops working, the revelry can come to an abrupt end. 

Outdoor plumbing issues tend to spring up at the worst time and catch homeowners off guard, so awareness is half the battle. Here are three of the most common outdoor plumbing problems to watch out for this summer.

Broken Irrigation System

Most homeowners will deal with an irrigation system malfunction at some point. The most common issue is a damaged or clogged sprinkler head, the symptoms of which can include a fountain of water, flooding, incorrect spray patterns, or no water at all. The solution is typically as simple as excavating the riser and either cleaning or replacing the head.

Other common issues may not be so easily remedied. Low water pressure could mean that a section of the underground plastic water lines has sprung a leak or become crushed. Unless the ground is soggy in one spot, it can be hard to pinpoint the problem. If the drip lines or sprinklers in one or more zones won’t turn on, a valve may be stuck or damaged, or there may be an issue with the electrical system that controls the valves.

Hose Bib Problems

If water is leaking from where the valve handle meets the spigot, the packing string wrapped around the valve stem has probably worn down, allowing water to seep up through the valve when the water is on. Other leaks may be caused by corrosion or a damaged coupling, in which case the whole hose bib may need replacing.

A lack of water or adequate pressure is most often the result of mineral deposits clogging up the pipes, particularly in areas with very hard water. The problem may also be an underground leak or a faulty or corroded valve further upstream.

Damaged Sewer Lines

As frustrating as the above issues can be, they’re nowhere near as bad as the worst outdoor plumbing fiasco – a damaged sewer line. This is most often caused by tree roots wrapping around and breaking into the pipes, especially in older homes with clay sewer pipes. On newer properties with cast iron or steel sewer lines, corrosion or shifting soil are often to blame. 

A damaged sewage line, whether it’s one of the smaller drain pipes coming from the house or the main sewer pipe where they converge, can cause enormous problems. Sewage can seep into the soil and make its way to the surface of the yard. It can also back up into the home’s drains. In any case, sewage can pose serious health risks, so these issues require immediate intervention from a professional. Depending on the ultimate cause and extent of the damage, they may be able to repair the sewer line without tearing up the yard and replacing the pipe.

About Daniel Cordova Plumbing, Drain & Sewer

Daniel Cordova Plumbing, Drain & Sewer has been serving the West Covina, CA community since 1996. Their licensed, insured, and bonded technicians arrive on time in full-stocked trucks, ready to handle any job with courtesy, efficiency, and attention to detail. They back up every service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and are available 24/7, 365 days a year in case of emergencies. Call now for plumbing services!

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