Summer in the Okanagan brings sunshine, lake days, and plumbing surprises you didn’t see coming. From backed-up drains to burst outdoor spigots, warmer weather and increased water usage often lead to seasonal plumbing issues.
Here’s a helpful guide to the most common summer plumbing problems faced by Okanagan homeowners, how to prevent them, and when to call in a pro.
1. Clogged or Slow Drains
Why It Happens:
Summer barbecues, outdoor activities, and houseguests all mean more debris down your kitchen sink, bathroom drains, and showers.
What to Watch For:
- Gurgling or bubbling sounds
- Water pooling in sinks or tubs
- Foul odours from drains
How to Prevent It:
- Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain
- Use sink strainers to catch food and hair
- Run cold water for 10–15 seconds after using your disposal
- Have drains professionally cleared at the start of the season
2. Sprinkler and Hose Bib Leaks
Why It Happens:
Outdoor faucets and irrigation systems often go unused during winter and may crack due to freezing. This is especially common in Okanagan lakefront homes, where exposed plumbing lines and extended irrigation runs are more vulnerable to damage from freeze-thaw cycles.
What to Watch For:
- Water pooling near your foundation
- Dripping or leaking spigots
- Unusually high water bills
How to Prevent It:
- Have outdoor hose bibs checked or replaced in spring
- Drain and disconnect hoses before winter
- Inspect sprinkler heads regularly
3. Sewer Line Backups
Why It Happens:
Heavy use of toilets and drains combined with tree root growth can lead to clogs or backups in your sewer line. Lakefront homes and older properties near the water are particularly prone due to aging infrastructure and shifting ground.
What to Watch For:
- Multiple slow drains
- Sewage smells in the yard or basement
- Water backing up in showers when toilets are flushed
How to Prevent It:
- Avoid flushing wipes or hygiene products
- Schedule a camera inspection every 1–2 years
- Install a backwater valve (recommended for older homes)
4. Sump Pump Failures
Why It Happens:
Okanagan storms can cause sudden heavy rainfall, especially near lakefront homes where high groundwater levels and poor drainage can overwhelm basements. If your sump pump isn’t working, it can lead to flooding quickly.
What to Watch For:
- Musty smells or moisture around the sump pit
- Sump pump not turning on during rain
- Visible rust or corrosion
How to Prevent It:
- Test your sump pump before summer storms
- Install a battery backup if you don’t have one
- Have the pit cleaned and inspected every season
5. High Water Usage Appliances
Why It Happens:
Summer laundry loads, long showers, and frequent dishwasher cycles increase stress on your plumbing, especially in lakefront homes or vacation properties with higher occupancy and frequent guests.
What to Watch For:
- Spikes in your water bill
- Washing machine or dishwasher leaks
- Reduced water pressure
How to Prevent It:
- Upgrade to WaterSense®-certified or ENERGY STAR® appliances
- Space out water-heavy activities
- Replace worn-out supply hoses (especially rubber ones)
FAQs – Summer Plumbing Problems
No. While use may increase, slow drains usually mean buildup or a deeper blockage. Don’t wait—get it checked.
Check for damp spots near your foundation or unexplained increases in your water bill. A pressure test can help diagnose the issue.
If your home is over 25 years old, yes. Early detection of cracks, root intrusion, or buildup can save you thousands later.
Yes. Just because you haven’t used it recently doesn’t mean it will work when you need it. Always test before storm season.
Most FortisBC rebates apply regardless of who installs the product—but check each rebate’s specific terms to be sure.
