Beat the Heat: Common Summer Plumbing Problems in Oklahoma and How to Prevent Them

As temperatures soar in Oklahoma during the summer months, most people focus on staying cool, enjoying barbecues, or planning family vacations. But did you know that the extreme heat can also wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system?

At Karney Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how Oklahoma’s sizzling summers can lead to unexpected and costly plumbing issues. Here are some of the most common summer plumbing problems in Tulsa—and how to avoid them:

1. Overworked Sprinkler Systems

Problem: With lawns drying out under the intense sun, sprinkler systems are working overtime. This can lead to leaks, broken sprinkler heads, or underground pipe damage.

Tip: Regularly inspect your sprinkler heads and watch for soggy patches in your yard, which may indicate a leak. Have your irrigation system professionally checked each season.

2. Sewer Line Backups

Problem: Oklahoma summers often bring sudden rainstorms that can overwhelm aging or compromised sewer lines. Tree roots, which grow more aggressively in heat searching for moisture, can also invade your pipes.

Tip: If you notice slow drains or a foul odor, it could signal a sewer line issue. Schedule a camera inspection with Karney Plumbing before it becomes an emergency.

3. Clogged Garbage Disposals

Problem: Summer means more cookouts—and more food scraps ending up down the disposal. Grease, melon rinds, corn husks, and bones are notorious for causing clogs.

Tip: Avoid overloading your garbage disposal. Always run cold water while it’s in use, and keep problematic food items out altogether.

4. Water Heater Strain

Problem: Your water heater doesn’t get the summer off. Between showers, laundry, and washing dishes (especially with house guests or kids home from school), your system might struggle to keep up.

Tip: Drain and flush your water heater to remove sediment buildup, and consider an inspection if your system is more than 8 years old.

5. Hose Bib and Outdoor Faucet Leaks

Problem: The repeated connection and disconnection of hoses can wear out your hose bibs, leading to leaks and water waste.

Tip: Check for drips or puddles around your outdoor faucets. Installing a frost-proof hose bib or using a hose timer can reduce stress on these fittings.

Stay Cool and Protected with Karney Plumbing Beat the Plumbing Problems

Don’t let a plumbing problem spoil your summer fun. At Karney Plumbing, we’re proud to be Tulsa’s trusted plumbing experts, ready to tackle any issue the heat may bring. From leak detection to sewer line inspections, we’re just a call away.

Need a summer plumbing check-up? Contact us today or call us at (918) 910-9977 to schedule your service.

Stay safe, stay cool, and trust your plumbing to the pros at Karney Plumbing.