03.3 - fall plumbing checklist

Fall Plumbing Preventative Checklist

It’s time to perform some preventive maintenance on your plumbing now that fall has arrived to ensure it is in excellent condition. Early problem detection and resolution stop problems from getting worse. The best time to take advantage of the temperate weather to repair any damage before the first frost falls is in the fall, even if it may be one of the busiest seasons for homes preparing for winter. Your property can stay in excellent condition throughout the colder months if you take a few easy precautions.

Clean the Downspouts and Pipes

Don’t flush the leaves down the toilet when cleaning up the yard. Keep the gutters and drains clean on a regular basis. A pipe may burst in the dead of winter from an obstruction brought on by moist, decomposing leaves.

Do Water Heater System Repairs

This is a wonderful place to start because your water heater will soon need to work harder to keep up with the lower temperatures. The average home temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit, however this can be changed as necessary. Remove any impediments that can cause corrosion inside the heater after getting the reading. The pressure valve on machinery that is under five years old can also be checked. It’s probably a good idea to hire a plumber if the structure is older. Use the lever to lift the valve, then lower it to verify it. The hot water should quickly flow out of the fixture as a result.

Check for Cracks and Leaks

It’s crucial to inspect equipment like showers and toilets for leaks and other damage. While your fixtures will inevitably experience some wear and tear, significant damage like cracks, dents, or rust should cause you severe concern. The combination of all these issues may prevent the light fixture from working at all. Additionally, keep an eye out for leaky areas with water stains on the ceiling, walls, or floors.

Do Maintenance Checks for Septic and Sewer Systems

You should check your septic and wastewater systems in the fall. Verify that neither line has an origin and is clear. Routine maintenance is best done in the winter because roots grow more slowly then. Get your septic tank drained out if it is full while the ground is still warm. Due to the additional effort required, digging out a frozen yard may become more expensive. Ask a BJC Plumbing professional for a pricing quote on winterizing your house, pool, and/or irrigation system.