Fall Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

Just because the cold air is arriving doesn’t mean that only your HVAC system needs attention. There are plumbing matters that need to be addressed at this time of year as well. Not only will it help prevent problems this winter, the weather is still nice enough to do some work outside.

Some things to consider before the freezing weather arrives:

• Exposed Pipes: Any outdoor or exposed piping that has water running through it should be strapped and wrapped with electrical heating tape. Once the pipes have been secured, insulate them with foam pipe insulation. Both of these supplies can be found in most home improvement centers.
• Exterior Water: Any outdoor faucets, hosebibbs, showers, etc. should be shut off during fall plumbing maintenance. Remove and drain all water hoses and drain all outdoor water fixtures. Manual, automatic and blow-out are the three methods used to do this. The best method depends on the system. A licensed plumber is best for the job.
• Water Heater: To protect your water heater from freezing (and to save money on your water bill), wrap the heater tank with an insulating blanket. These can be found at most home improvement stores. Be sure to know what size blanket you need for your particular heater. If you live in an area where it gets particulary cold, it is highly recommended that you wrap your water heater.
• Leaking Pipes: If you have noticed soft spots on the ceilings or the walls, you may have leaking pipes inside the walls or in the attic. Check all of your toilets to be sure they are flushing properly and not running (this is a good practice all year). Be sure the toilet is firmly in place and not wobbly or loose. If any caulking around showers, tubs, toilets and sinks are loose, peel it away and reculk those areas.
• Sprinkler Blowout: Don’t procrastinate long enough to ruin pipes and sprinkler heads. Do it early! Your yard will be okay.
• Gutters and Downspouts: Poor insulation in the attic causes snow and ice on the roof to melt and clogged gutters cause the water to overflow. When that water freezes, it expands and tear apart your eaves, roof and take sections of the gutters right off the house. Have your gutters cleaned and make sure you have proper insulation.
• Garden Hoses: Unhook hoses and either blow them out or drain them with gravity and store inside. The plastic and rubber will freeze inside the hose and most likely crack. Save money on a new water hose next summer by saving the current hose you have.
• Septic/Sewer System: Fall is a good time to have your septic and sewer system checked. Make sure both lines are clear and free of roots. Roots won’t grow as much during winter and this is the perfect time for this maintenance. If you septic tank is full, have it pumped while the ground is still warm. Digging up a frozen yard may cost more due to the extra man-power.
• Main Shut Off: Every member of your household should know where the main water shut off is in the event of an emergency. Make sure everyone knows where each individual fixture shut off is located also. A 1/2″ pipe can gush upwards of 10 gallons per minute if you have high pressure in your house. Having your teenage son take care of this in a few seconds instead of running to find a neighbor to help can save you thousands of dollars.

If you need a winterization of your home or vacation home performed, call us today at 843.236.7142.