As the days get shorter and the temperatures start to dip, it’s the perfect time to make sure your home’s plumbing is ready for the cooler weather. Taking a few preventative steps in the fall can help you avoid costly repairs and plumbing emergencies when winter rolls around. Here’s a handy fall plumbing checklist to get your home in top shape:

✔️ Inspect and Insulate Pipes

Cold weather can cause exposed pipes to freeze and burst. Check pipes in unheated areas like the basement, garage, and crawl spaces. Add insulation sleeves or heat tape to keep them protected when temperatures drop.

✔️ Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Leaving hoses attached to outdoor faucets can cause water to freeze inside, leading to cracked spigots or burst pipes. Disconnect all hoses, drain them, and store them indoors for the season.

✔️ Shut Off Outdoor Faucets

After removing hoses, shut off the water supply to outdoor spigots (if your home has a shutoff valve). Then, open the faucets to let any remaining water drain out.

✔️ Check Your Water Heater

With cooler weather, your water heater will work harder. Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup, check the temperature setting, and schedule maintenance if needed to ensure efficiency and prevent breakdowns.

✔️ Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Fallen leaves can clog gutters and downspouts, causing water to back up and damage your roof or foundation. Clear out debris so rain and melting snow can flow freely away from your home.

✔️ Test Your Sump Pump

Heavy fall rains and melting snow can put extra pressure on your sump pump. Test it by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit to make sure it kicks on properly.

✔️ Seal Leaks and Drafts

Check around windows, doors, and exterior walls for drafts that could let in cold air and affect your plumbing. Sealing gaps also keeps your home warmer and lowers energy bills.

✔️ Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection

A licensed plumber can spot potential issues before they turn into expensive repairs. Fall is a great time for an annual plumbing check-up to ensure your system is ready for the demands of winter.

APPC Plumbing Can Help You Prepare This Fall

A little preparation this fall can save you from plumbing headaches down the road. By following this seasonal plumbing checklist, you’ll help keep your home safe, comfortable, and running smoothly as temperatures drop. 

Need help getting your plumbing ready for fall or scheduling a seasonal inspection? Contact APPC Plumbing today, we’re here to keep your home running smoothly all year long!