Summer can be tough on your water system. Between higher water usage, soaring temperatures, and mineral buildup, your plumbing and filtration equipment might be feeling the heat—literally. As we ease into fall, now’s the perfect time for a post-summer water system check-up to make sure everything is running smoothly before cooler weather sets in.

Think of it as a seasonal tune-up: just like you’d check your HVAC before winter, your home’s water system deserves some TLC too.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to inspect, when to act, and how to keep your water safe, soft, and clean all year round.

Why a Post-Summer Water System Check-Up Matters

Summer takes a toll on your home’s water system in ways you may not realize. Here's why a post-summer water system check-up is crucial:

• Increased demand = more wear and tear: Between extra laundry, watering the lawn, and long post-pool showers, your system has likely been working overtime.

• Heat = stress on equipment: High temperatures can strain pipes and increase mineral buildup, especially in hard water areas.

• End-of-season maintenance = fewer surprises later: A quick check now can help you avoid bigger issues this fall or winter—like clogged filters or pressure issues.

1. Check Your Filtration System

Whether you have a reverse osmosis unit, single-stage filter, or dual-stage system, the end of summer is a smart time to take a closer look.

What to Inspect:

• Filter replacement date: When was your last change? Most filters should be replaced every 3–6 months, and summer usage often accelerates wear.

• Water pressure drop: A noticeable dip in water pressure may signal a clogged filter.

• Leaks or pooling: Check around your filtration unit for signs of leaks, which could mean an O-ring needs to be replaced or a fitting has loosened.

Pro Tip:

Mark your calendar for your next replacement—or better yet, set a reminder. Staying on schedule ensures your system is always running at peak performance.

2. Evaluate Your Water Softener (If You Have One)

If you live in a hard water zone, chances are your softener worked extra hard this summer. A post-summer water system check-up should include a quick assessment of your softening unit.

What to Check:

• Salt levels: Make sure your brine tank still has enough salt and top it off if needed.

• Bridging: In high humidity (like late summer), salt can harden and form a “bridge.” Tap the sides of the tank to break up any clumps.

• Efficiency: If you’ve noticed spots on dishes, soap not lathering, or dry skin, your softener may need a reset or service.

Not Sure If You Have Hard Water?

Signs include:

• White mineral stains on faucets

• Scale buildup on fixtures

• Dry or itchy skin after showering

3. Flush Outdoor Hose Bibs and Irrigation Lines

Fall is a great time to wrap up any outdoor water usage and prep those lines for colder weather.

What to Do:

• Inspect for leaks around outdoor spigots.

• Flush out irrigation lines if you won’t be using them for fall landscaping.

• Disconnect hoses to prevent trapped water from freezing and damaging pipes later on.

Even in milder climates, doing this now saves you the hassle of dealing with unexpected freezing once temps drop.

4. Look for Signs of Scale or Sediment Buildup

Summer heat can increase evaporation rates and concentrate minerals in your water supply—especially if you’re on well water or live in an area with seasonal droughts.

Watch For:

• Cloudy tap water

• Sand-like sediment in faucet aerators

• A chalky film on appliances or glassware

If you’re seeing these signs, your post-summer water system check-up may need to include sediment flushing or a filter change.

5. Schedule a Professional Inspection (If Needed)

If you're not sure whether your system is performing as it should—or you just want peace of mind heading into a new season—it may be time to call in a pro.

When to Schedule Service:

• You skipped your last filter change or can’t remember when it was

• Your water has a strange odor or taste

• You’re seeing visible scale or corrosion

• Your water pressure has dropped significantly

A professional inspection can ensure everything from your filtration system to your water softener is in top shape and ready for fall.

Bonus Tip: Stay Ahead with a Filter Subscription or Reminder System

Life gets busy—especially once back-to-school season and holidays kick in. Don’t let filter changes fall through the cracks. Many homeowners benefit from:

• Auto-ship filter subscriptions

• Digital calendar reminders

• Printed filter replacement logs in utility closets

Little steps like these can make a big difference in keeping your system running efficiently long-term.

Final Thoughts: Ready Your Water for Fall

A post-summer water system check-up might sound simple, but it goes a long way in protecting your home’s water quality. With just a few seasonal checks, you can ensure your water stays clean, your equipment lasts longer, and your family stays healthy year-round.

Whether you’re sipping spiced tea or gearing up for Halloween guests, you deserve water you can trust.

What's In Your Water?

Find out how clean your water is (or isn’t) with our Free Water Assessment, and learn more about the Dupure water filtration, conditioning and softening systems that will help you make your house a safer, healthier home.

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