The chilly autumn air is a reminder for homeowners that it’s time to start getting their homes ready for the cold. A lack of preparation can mean big trouble come winter, so consider these fall plumbing tips and take these easy steps to get your home ready now and to avoid expensive problems when the snow falls.

Drain and Store all Water and Garden Hoses

We want to make sure our garden hoses make it through the cold months, so it’s important that you properly store them away. When a hose has been disconnected, drain the water and place it in an area of your home that will not reach freezing temperatures. Water that’s left over inside the hose can freeze and expand causing the hose to break!

Shut Off Valves and Cover Outdoor Faucets

Make sure that you use shut-off valves to cut all water off from your outdoor spigots. If you don’t have these exterior valves, just make sure the faucet is not dripping or leaking any water that could freeze and burst and cause breakage. You can also invest in a very affordable foam faucet cover. It looks like half an igloo and basically acts as an insulation to keep the outside cold out.

Clear and Clean the Gutters

Because of the fall rainfall, you want to make sure your gutters are clear of leaves, twigs, and other debris. This helps to ensure proper draining and keeps water from falling around the home foundation. When water lands near the foundation, it seeps into crawl spaces, causing problems in the process.

Set Your Water Heater Temperature

During the colder months, your water heater has to work harder to deliver warm water when you need it. As temperatures drop, make sure your water heater is set to approximately 48 degrees Celsius to ensure it’s prepared to perform at its best during the cold.

Inspect the Sump Pump

You should prep your sump pump for winter by checking and cleaning it to make sure it’s fully functional and prepared for winter. Make sure the discharge line is fully clear to avoid flooding that could cost you a lot of cash in repair costs.

 

These fall plumbing tips are part of broader house plumbing basics that every homeowner can take initiative on. However, if you run into a plumbing problem that’s out of scope then it might be time to call Royal Flush Plumbing. Schedule a service appointment with us today to have your home winterized by an expert! In the meantime, enjoy the mild fall weather.