How Can I Prepare My Outdoor Plumbing for San Diego’s Dry Season?

April 19, 2025

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San Diego’s dry season may offer endless sunshine and blue skies, but it can also put stress on your outdoor plumbing system. Without the natural hydration that comes from rain, your outdoor pipes, fixtures, and irrigation systems can suffer wear and tear—leading to leaks, water waste, and unnecessary repairs. Preparing your plumbing now can help you avoid emergencies and save on water bills during the driest months of the year.

At Fox Plumbing, we’ve seen what can go wrong after 40+ years in the business. Here’s a practical guide to preparing your outdoor plumbing system to handle San Diego’s dry heat.

1. Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Spigots

Before the dry season sets in, do a full inspection of all your outdoor faucets and hose bibs. Check for:

Drips or leaks: Even small leaks can lead to big water waste during drought conditions.
Cracks or rust: Heat can cause metal components to expand and deteriorate over time.
Loose connections: Make sure all fittings are tight and hoses are secured properly.

If anything looks worn or damaged, consider replacing it now before it becomes a larger issue later.

2. Check Your Irrigation System

Sprinklers and drip irrigation systems are essential for keeping your garden alive during the dry months. But they’re also one of the top sources of outdoor water waste.

Here’s what to look for:

Clogged or misaligned sprinkler heads
Leaks in underground pipes
Uneven watering patterns or dry patches
Timer settings that don’t match your current landscape needs

It’s a good idea to test your system early in the morning when water usage is low and look for puddles or soggy areas.

3. Install or Upgrade to a Smart Controller

If your irrigation system uses a traditional timer, now’s the perfect time to upgrade. Smart irrigation controllers adjust watering schedules based on real-time weather data, seasonal changes, and soil conditions. Many are eligible for rebates through San Diego’s water conservation programs

You’ll reduce water waste, save money, and protect your landscape during the driest months.

4. Insulate Exposed Pipes and Valves

While freezing may not be a big concern in San Diego, heat damage can still affect exposed plumbing. Prolonged exposure to sun and dry air can:

Weaken pipe material
Cause cracks or bursts
Lead to early pipe failure

Use foam pipe insulation or UV-resistant tape to wrap exposed sections. This protects them from the elements and extends their lifespan.

5. Look for Tree Root Intrusion

During dry weather, tree roots actively seek moisture—and your underground plumbing lines are a prime target. If you notice:

Slow drains
Frequent backups
Unexplained soggy patches in the yard

It could be a sign that roots have invaded your pipes. Catching this early with a video pipe inspection can save you thousands in future repairs.

6. Flush and Maintain Outdoor Drains

Clear out debris from:

Patio and yard drains
Outdoor shower drains
Gutter downspouts connected to drainage lines

Dry season often means more yard work and less rainfall to naturally flush these systems. Keeping them clear ensures they’re ready to handle unexpected summer storms or high outdoor water use.

7. Test Water Pressure

The dry season often coincides with increased water usage. High pressure may stress your pipes and appliances. Use a pressure gauge to check your water pressure—ideal residential pressure ranges from 40–60 psi.

If you’re seeing levels higher than 80 psi, consider installing a pressure regulator or calling a professional to evaluate your system.

8. Schedule a Professional Outdoor Plumbing Tune-Up

Some issues are best caught early with a trained eye. At Fox Plumbing, we offer comprehensive outdoor plumbing inspections that include:

Checking for underground leaks
Inspecting water lines and hose bibs
Testing irrigation performance
Assessing pipe health and recommending preventive repairs

Preventative care now means fewer emergencies later—and a whole lot more peace of mind.

How We Can Help

At Fox Plumbing, we’re proud to be one of San Diego’s most trusted plumbing companies, with over 40 years of experience and top rankings on Google, BBB, and Yelp. Whether you need a quick outdoor faucet fix or a full irrigation system inspection, our team offers fast-response emergency service and expert care for all your plumbing needs.

Don’t wait until the dry season puts stress on your system. Call Fox Plumbing today and stay ahead of the heat.