How Extreme Heat Affects Your Plumbing (And What to Do About It)

When people think of summer plumbing problems, they often imagine sprinkler issues or high water bills. But extreme heat can put stress on your entire plumbing system—especially in commercial buildings like restaurants, hotels, gyms, and retail spaces. At Dan’s Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how hot weather leads to unexpected plumbing issues that can disrupt business. Here's what to look out for and how to stay ahead of summer’s heat-related challenges.

How Summer Heat Affects Plumbing Systems

1. Pipe Expansion and Cracks: Hot temperatures can cause pipes to expand—especially those exposed to direct sunlight or located in poorly insulated areas. Over time, this stress can lead to warping, cracking, or even bursting pipes.

Pro tip: Look out for signs of leaks around walls, floors, or ceilings. Catching it early can prevent costly damage.

2. Low Water Pressure: In high heat, municipal water demand skyrockets. That can lead to low pressure, especially during peak usage hours. Businesses may notice weaker flow from faucets, showers, or kitchen fixtures.

Dan’s Tip: If your water pressure is consistently low, we can inspect your system for buildup, leaks, or faulty pressure regulators.

3. Increased Risk of Sewer Line Issues: Dry, shifting soil in extreme heat can put pressure on underground sewer lines, causing cracks or misalignment. Tree roots, searching for water, may also invade sewer pipes during dry spells, leading to blockages and backups.

4. Water Heater Overload: It may be hot outside, but your water heater still works hard—especially in commercial kitchens or fitness centers. High demand in summer can cause sediment buildup, overheating, or inconsistent water temperatures.

Summer Maintenance Tips to Prevent Plumbing Problems

✔️ Insulate exposed pipes — Even in warm weather, insulation protects against extreme temperature swings and physical stress.

✔️ Schedule a sewer line inspection — Catch tree root intrusion or shifting soil problems before they escalate.

✔️ Flush your water heater — This removes sediment and improves efficiency during peak usage.

✔️ Check for slow drains and unusual smells — These can be early signs of a sewer or drainage issue worsened by heat.

✔️ Have your fixtures and flushometers checked — Especially in high-traffic bathrooms where constant use can cause leaks and wasted water.

Commercial Plumbing Solutions That Beat the Heat

At Dan’s Plumbing, we offer expert services to handle summer plumbing problems before they hurt your business, including:

  • Water heater maintenance
  • Sewer camera inspections
  • High-pressure water jetting
  • Fixture repair and replacement
  • Leak detection
  • Flushometer servicing
  • Emergency plumbing support

Stay Cool, Stay Operational

Don’t let the summer heat boil over into a plumbing disaster. Whether you're seeing signs of trouble or just want peace of mind, Dan’s Plumbing is here to help your business stay cool and compliant all summer long.

Ready for a summer plumbing checkup? Contact Dan’s Plumbing today to schedule your service!