As fall quickly approaches, homeowners must shift their focus towards preparing their homes for the upcoming colder months. One essential aspect of this preparation is fall plumbing maintenance. Taking proactive measures to safeguard your plumbing system can prevent costly repairs and inconveniences during the winter. Here are 6 crucial steps to help you ensure that your plumbing remains in optimal condition throughout the fall season.
1. Inspect for Leaks
Begin your fall plumbing maintenance routine by inspecting your house for leaks. Check faucets, pipes, and connections both inside and outside. Even minor leaks can worsen over time, leading to wasted water and potentially expensive repairs. Don’t forget to also examine your water heater for any signs of leakage or corrosion.
2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
While gutters are likely not the first thing you think of when you think of plumbing, they do play a crucial role in directing water away from your home. As leaves and debris fall during autumn, gutters can easily become clogged. Unfortunately, this can leads to water overflow that could potentially seep into your foundation. Clean out your gutters and downspouts to prevent water-related damage.
3. Protect Exterior Faucets
Exterior faucets are susceptible to freezing temperatures, which can cause pipes to burst. To prevent this, disconnect and drain garden hoses, and consider installing frost-proof faucets if you haven’t done so already. For added protection, insulate outdoor pipes and faucets with foam covers. This can reduce the risk of freezing.
4. Check Sump Pump Functionality
Fall often brings increased rainfall. This means that a functional sump pump is your home’s defense against basement flooding. Test your sump pump and check to make sure it’s working as it should be. If the pump doesn’t activate and remove the water when you test it, or if it’s making unusual sounds, it could be time for a maintenance or replacement.
5. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Exposed pipes in unheated spaces, like the basement, attic, or crawl spaces, are prone to freezing. Use pipe insulation to protect them from the cold. Insulating pipes not only prevents freezing buy also conserves energy by maintaining hot water temperatures as it travels through your home.
6. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Last but not least, schedule an inspection. While these DIY steps are essential, nothing beats a professional plumbing inspection. A professional can conduct a thorough evaluation of your plumbing system. This can help them identify hidden issues, perform necessary maintenance, and offer valuable advice to ensure your plumbing remains in top-notch condition.
Contact Summers Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Today for All Your Plumbing Inspection and Maintenance Needs in Parts of Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio
As the seasons transition, dedicating time to fall plumbing maintenance is a proactive approach that can save you money, prevent inconvenience, and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system. By following these 6 steps, you’ll be well-prepared to face the challenges that autumn may bring. Remember, Summers Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is your partner in maintaining a comfortable and efficient home throughout the year. Contact us today to learn more!
