Summer is over and there’s a nip in the air. Fall is the season of mums and pumpkins, but it also means one thing – winter is just around the corner. That’s why this is the perfect time for homeowners to begin to prepare for the cold by prepping their plumbing system for the harsh temperatures that are coming. Giving your pipes and plumbing some attention now can also greatly reduce the chances of a pipe bursting – which can lead to a flooded basement and potentially expensive clean-up.
Here are some tips on how to get your pipes ready for the cold to come.
Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses. Now that you’re not watering your lawn anymore, it’s time to unhook the hose, drain out all the water and put it away for the season. Otherwise, if there’s a hard frost or sudden drop in temperature the hose could freeze. Any water trapped inside the hose could then expand and back up into the interior plumbing. This could cause the pipes inside the walls of your home to expand and potentially explode.
Insulate pipes. If the temperature in your home drops too low, it can lead to pipes freezing and even a pipe bursting, causing potentially thousands of dollars in damages to your home and possessions. One of the best ways to keep pipes from freezing is with pipe insulation. Homeowners who prefer to go the DIY route can purchase self-adhesive pipe insulation and handle the insulation duties themselves. However, keep in mind that not all pipes may be accessible. A plumbing professional can inspect all your pipes to determine which ones may be particularly vulnerable to freezing, such as ones located in a less-insulated part of your home. They can also handle insulating your pipes if you don’t want to tackle it yourself.
Get your hot water heater inspected and cleaned. There’s never a convenient time for your hot water heater to break, but winter is definitely one of the worse times for it to happen, which is why fall is a good time to give it some TLC. Sediment can build up in hot water heaters, particularly if you live in an area with hard water. This can make it less efficient and potentially lead to leaks. Homeowners should consider hiring a plumbing professional to clean the hot water heater before winter to clear out any sediment. A plumber can also check for leaks, inspect water connections and the temperature pressure relief valve, and look for telltale rust stains that could signal that it’s time to replace the unit.
Have your sump pump serviced. Another key component of your plumbing system is your sump pump, which prevents your basement from flooding. As part of your fall plumbing checkup, check the pump to make sure that the discharge line is clear and doesn’t contain any debris. If it appears dirty or clogged, contact a professional to have it cleaned.
The team at EcoClean are experienced in inspecting and cleaning plumbing systems. We can check for clogged pipes and also inspect, clean and make any necessary repairs to your sump pump. Give us a call today to get your home ready for winter.
