As the temperatures rise and summer kicks in, Melbourne homeowners shift their focus to barbecues, holidays, and family fun. But while you enjoy the sun, don’t overlook one essential part of your home: your plumbing system.
Summer can put extra strain on your pipes and fixtures. A bit of seasonal maintenance now can help you avoid costly plumbing issues later — and keep everything flowing smoothly.
Here are our top summer plumbing maintenance tips for a hassle-free season in Melbourne.
☀️ 1. Inspect Outdoor Taps and Hoses
During winter, outdoor taps and hoses may have been damaged by the cold or inactivity. Check for:
- Cracks or leaks around spouts
- Dripping hoses or fittings
- Rusted or stiff connections
🛠 Tip: Install a tap timer or water-saving hose nozzle to conserve water during garden use.
🚽 2. Check Toilets for Hidden Leaks
Toilet leaks waste hundreds of litres of water. In summer, this can skyrocket your water bill.
💧 Quick Test: Drop a few drops of food colouring into the tank — if the colour appears in the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a silent leak.
🛁 3. Clear and Clean Drains
Hair, soap scum, and summer grime can build up fast. Before holiday guests arrive:
- Pour a mix of baking soda and vinegar into your drains
- Flush with hot water after 15 minutes
🧼 For outdoor drains (especially in Melbourne’s leafy suburbs), remove debris and tree roots to avoid blockages.
💧 4. Monitor Water Pressure
High water pressure can damage pipes and appliances over time.
If you hear banging pipes or notice powerful bursts when taps open, it may be time to install a pressure regulator or get it professionally checked.
🚿 5. Flush Your Hot Water System
Sediment buildup in your hot water tank reduces efficiency and shortens its life.
🎯 Melbourne’s water quality can vary, so flushing once a year — preferably before peak usage in summer — helps maintain consistent hot water flow.
🏡 6. Look for Signs of Pipe Leaks
Summer is a good time to inspect areas that are harder to check in winter:
- Under the house
- Behind appliances
- Garden irrigation systems
🔍 Look for mould, wet patches, or a sudden spike in your water bill.
👷 Bonus Tip: Book a Preventative Plumbing Inspection
If you’re planning a long holiday or renting out your home this summer, a plumbing inspection can give you peace of mind.
A professional Melbourne plumber can:
- Detect hidden leaks
- Test water pressure
- Ensure all systems are ready for the heat
🌿 Enjoy a Worry-Free Summer
With just a bit of seasonal plumbing maintenance, you can enjoy summer in Melbourne without worrying about unexpected breakdowns, leaks, or floods.
Need help? Housecare Plumbing is here to support Melbourne homeowners with trusted, friendly service.
👉 Contact us today to schedule your summer plumbing check!