Fall Plumbing To-Do List

Fall is just around the corner. And though it has been a very unusual year, there are still many tasks that homeowners need to complete to get their houses ready for the winter months. Depending on your region and the features of your home, not all of these items will apply. But it is a nice comprehensive list to help everyone get ready for the coming change of seasons.

• Remove Water Hoses: When you are done with garden hoses for the year, be sure to remove them from your outdoor spigots. If the hose remains and traps water, it could damage your hose bib over the winter months.
• Inspect Faucets: This applies to indoor and outdoor faucets. Cracks and leaks are wasting both water and money. And outdoor faucets could be severely damaged over the winter months.
• Address Any Clogs: The holiday season is coming, and so are many guests. Take care of small clogs or drainage issues before guests arrive, and you are cooking massive meals and washing lots of dishes.
• Check Your Valves: Water valves can wear over time. And you do not want to wait until there is an emergency to discover that you cannot turn off the water to your house, pool, or other areas. Valves should turn smoothly and close completely. If they do not, call your trusted plumber before you are facing a flood and need emergency service.
• Flush Your Water Heater: The weather is still pleasant, and it is the perfect time to knock out water heater maintenance. Draining the tank and flushing out all of the mineral sediment in the holding tank will add years of service to your water heater’s life. No one wants a surprise cold shower in the wintertime.
• Insulate Pipes: If you live in a region that could see freezing temperatures, it is time to insulate your exposed pipes. Even if there is only a small chance that you will experience cold weather, this is a good investment. Supplies are plentiful and affordable now. But if you wait until the local weather forecast includes a freeze warning and there will be no supplies to be found.
• Inspect Your Sump Pump: Winter can bring cooler weather, more rain, and even snow in many parts of the country. And all of those will take a toll on your sump pump. Before the warm weather leaves for the season, take a few minutes to clean and inspect your sump pump. While it is not an item you often think about, it provides a priceless service in keeping the water out of your basement.
• Inspect Appliance Hoses: There is never a good time for a flood in your home, but the holiday season can make it even more stressful. But you can significantly reduce the chances of a soggy holiday season by inspecting the hoses on all of your appliances. Start in the kitchen with the dishwasher hoses and the water line running to your refrigerator ice maker and water dispenser. Next, visit the laundry room to look at the hoses on your washing machine. And don’t forget to check the supply lines running to each toilet and the piping under all of your sinks. If you see any cracks or peeling of hoses, replace them before it is too late. And if any of the pipes or fittings under your sinks are dripping or covered in corrosion, be proactive and save yourself the stress of a holiday flood.
• Check Your Sprinkler System: If you live in a warm climate, check your sprinkler system for any leaks or issues. In the warm summer months, a little extra water is quickly absorbed into the ground. But in the winter, water leaks will quickly create standing water and drown your grass and plants.

As the summer comes to a close, the holiday season will be here before you know it. And smart homeowners use this pleasant time of the year to complete one last round of inspections to avoid any unwanted holiday surprises. If you discover any issues with your homes plumbing or drain system, call (706) 303-0987 to schedule a service appointment with a Drain Surgeon licensed plumber.