As the days get shorter and the seasons begin to change, many homeowners begin their preparations for the winter months. From checking the heater to chopping firewood, there’s a lot to do before the cold weather hits. As you tackle your to-do list this fall, don’t forget about your plumbing.
Here are seven areas all homeowners should check throughout the fall:
Exterior Faucets
Check any outdoor water sources for leaks and disconnect your garden hoses. Then, turn off the interior valve for these faucets (it’s usually in your basement) to prevent frozen and burst pipes over the winter. As an added precaution, cover the faucets with Styrofoam.
Pipes
Fall is the perfect time to check all of your pipes for leaks—and to get them fixed before winter. As you look at the pipes in your home, also check to see that they are all properly insulated to prevent them from freezing and bursting when the weather gets colder.
Gutters
With falling leaves, wind and those final rainstorms before the snow comes, now is the time to thoroughly clean your gutters. This is hugely important because clogged gutters can lead to pooling and freezing water around your home’s foundation, which can cause cracks, leaks and other major headaches.
The Water Heater
Your water heater will be working its hardest during the winter months, so to prepare, you should flush it to remove any buildup of sediment. Doing do regularly will extend your water heater’s life and make it run more efficiently.
Sump Pump
The last thing you want is for your sump pump to go down during a winter storm. This fall, be sure to check your pump for any damage. Pour a bucket of water on it and watch to see if it drains properly. If you notice a drainage issue or any bad smalls emitting from your pump, call in a professional to have a look.
The Sewer
When it comes to your sewer, a little bit of prevention can go a long way. If you have trees and shrubs planted near your sewer line, the fall is a great time to prune them back, making sure no roots have popped up too close. You should also snake your sewer line, and have a professional have a look if you find anything concerning.
The Professionals
It pays to have a professional come in and look at any issues you find during your fall maintenance checks. Fixing a smaller problem early is much less of a headache than a major plumbing component going out in the middle of the winter. Even if all of your systems seem to be in good working order, be sure to have the contact information of your preferred plumber readily available just in case.
At Faulstick Plumbing, we specialize in installs, repairs, and inspections for all of your well, water, and plumbing needs. Our family-owned and operated business has built a reputation as the best-doing things the right way with the customer in mind, every time. Give us a call at 570-992-0447 to discuss your needs today!
