As kids head back to school and routines shift into high gear, Birmingham homeowners are putting more daily strain on their plumbing systems. From early morning showers to after-school laundry and dinner cleanups, your pipes, drains, and water heater are working overtime — and if something goes wrong, it can throw off your entire schedule.
That’s why September is the perfect time to get ahead of plumbing issues before they become emergencies. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, here’s what Stephens Plumbing recommends checking now — plus when to call in a trusted plumber in Birmingham, AL.
1. Check for Slow Drains in Showers, Sinks, and Tubs
As more people use the bathroom at the same time in the mornings, small clogs can quickly become major backups. A slow-draining shower might not seem like an emergency today — but give it a week of daily use and you’ll be searching for an emergency plumber in Birmingham.
What to do:
- Clear hair traps and clean visible gunk from drain covers
- Run hot water and baking soda to help clear grease or soap buildup
- If water still pools, call a professional plumber in Birmingham to avoid future blockages
2. Test Your Water Heater’s Recovery Time
With more showers, dishes, and laundry happening every day, your water heater needs to keep up. If it takes longer than usual for your water to get hot — or it runs out faster — it could be a sign of sediment buildup or an aging system.
Stephens Plumbing can inspect, flush, or replace your system as needed — helping you avoid cold showers and costly breakdowns during the fall. If your unit is more than 8–10 years old, consider booking an inspection with our licensed Birmingham plumbers this month.
3. Inspect Toilets for Silent Leaks and Constant Running
Back-to-school stress doesn’t need to include plumbing issues. Toilets that constantly run, refill randomly, or show signs of leaking around the base can waste hundreds of gallons per week — and skyrocket your water bill.
Don’t ignore the signs. Our expert plumbers in Birmingham, AL can quickly fix or replace faulty parts before they fail completely.
4. Watch for Signs of Sewer or Drain Line Stress
Increased daily use can also reveal underlying problems with your main sewer line. If you smell something foul near drains or hear bubbling from your toilet when other fixtures are in use, those are early signs of a blockage or backup.
If this sounds familiar, it’s time to schedule a camera inspection. Stephens Plumbing uses non-invasive technology to locate the source — and solve the problem — before it turns into a messy emergency.
5. Consider Gas Appliance Upgrades While It’s Still Warm
September is a great time to schedule upgrades like gas water heaters, stoves, or dryers before colder weather makes installations more complicated. Our team offers fully licensed and insured gas fitting services across Birmingham.
Back-to-school season is also perfect for:
- Upgrading to a tankless gas water heater
- Installing gas lines for new laundry or kitchen setups
- Replacing aging gas connections before winter
If you’re planning a home project this fall, don’t wait. Book your gas line work now with a certified plumber in Birmingham.
Why Trust Stephens Plumbing?
Whether you’re dealing with a simple clog or a last-minute emergency, Stephens Plumbing is the go-to team for families across the city. We’re proud to be among the most trusted plumbers in Birmingham, offering fast, affordable service with no surprise fees.
We offer:
- Emergency plumbing 24/7
- Gas fitting and appliance hook-up
- Leak detection and drain cleaning
- Honest pricing and licensed techs
- 25+ years of service in Birmingham
Keep Your Schedule Running Smoothly
This September, stay ahead of plumbing problems before they disrupt your back-to-school routine. From slow drains and running toilets to gas appliance upgrades and sewer line inspections, Stephens Plumbing is here to help.
When you need a plumber in Birmingham, AL you can count on — especially during busy times — we’ve got your back.