10 Essential Plumbing Maintenance Tasks for Fall
With the summer gone, it’s the perfect time to do your fall plumbing maintenance for the cooler temperatures to come. Caldwell Plumbing frequently receives calls from customers in late fall and winter regarding plumbing fixes that could have been resolved as maintenance earlier in the year. Preventative action can truly save you costly repairs down the road. These 10 essential plumbing maintenance tasks for fall will help keep your system in top shape for the months ahead.
Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
Before temperatures drop to freezing cold, it’s recommended that a homeowner inspect outdoor faucets and hoses. As they are exposed to the elements, outdoor faucets and hoses are vulnerable to freezing. Disconnect hoses, drain excess water, and shut off the outdoor water supply lines. This will prevent cracks and leaks that can occur in fall and winter.
Check for Pipe Insulation
Check for pipe insulation around all exposed pipes in unheated areas. Inspect the plumbing that runs through your basement, garage, and crawl space. If they are not properly insulated, consider getting your pipes done as proper insulation will protect against bursting during cold snaps.
Drain and Flush the Water Heater
Sediment buildup in your water heater can reduce efficiency and shorten its lifespan. This is why we drain and flush the water heater in the fall. As hot water demand increases in the colder months, your water heater will be operating at peak performance.
Test the Sump Pump
With fall often comes increased rain and moisture. Test your sump pump. Ensure it is functioning properly. Pour water into the sump pump pit. If it’s working, the pump should activate as the water fills in. Your sump pump reduces the risk of flooding or water damage that occurs during heavy rainfall.
Check Toilet for Leaks
It’s always an excellent idea to check a toilet for leaks. A leaking toilet can waste gallons of water in a short period of time and drive up utility bills. Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank and wait ten minutes. If any colour reaches the bowl, it suggests the water from the tank is leaking. It’s recommended to call the experts at Caldwell Plumbing for next steps.
Check Your Faucets and Appliances for Leaks
Water leaks can happen due to a corroded valve seat, problems with the O-ring, a worn-out washer, or a broken hose. Check your faucets and appliances for leaks, and get them resolved before winter sets in. When it comes to appliances, this includes the washing machine, refrigerator, and anything else connected to your water line. Look for water stains or standing puddles in areas around appliances.
Inspect Water Pressure
When you inspect water pressure, it’s a way to do an inexpensive full-system check. Low water pressure can have several causes, such as sediment buildup in the hot water heater or leaks in the plumbing system. Test your water pressure and, if it’s lower than average, reach out to a plumber in Durham.
Find Your Main Shutoff Valve
Know where your main shuftoff valve is. Ensure it can turn off/on. When you check its ability to turn, any stiffness or corrosion can be dealt with immediately instead of in an emergency situation where you need to shut off the water without delay.
Clean Your Gutters
Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear of twigs, leaves, and other debris. The increased precipitation in fall and winter, combined with strong winds and freezing temperatures, is a hazard. When you clean your gutters, it ensures proper drainage, prevents rainwater from accumulating near your home’s foundation, and protects your home.
Inspect Sewer Lines
A professional plumber can inspect your sewer lines to identify any blockages or damage. Why fall is the best time for this check is because sewer line issues can worsen in winter. Exposed pipes or inadequate insulation are issues that can be dealt with now before freezing and permanent pipe damage.
Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection with Caldwell Plumbing
Many of these fall plumbing maintenance tasks can be tackled by homeowners themselves. It’s always a good idea to have a professional inspect your plumbing system before winter. A licensed plumber can identify potential problems you may not see and ensure everything is in working order.
The experts at Caldwell Plumbing offer premium fall plumbing maintenance services, fixing any problems we find and ensuring you are equipped to navigate the season. For expert help and reliable plumbing services in Durham , contact us today!
