Plumbing catastrophes can happen at any time throughout the year or with any weather conditions. However, the wintertime is the most common time when plumbing issues occur. You’re probably thinking, “It’s still autumn, though.” Yes, you’re right! But staying aware of how your home’s plumbing might be adversely impacted during the cold Ohio winter can help with knowing how to adequately plan and prepare your plumbing system while the fall weather is currently optimal. As a homeowner, when you do this, it will equip your plumbing to endure the winter as it handles whatever Mother Nature throws our way. So, read these fall plumbing maintenance checklist items from your Narrow Path Plumbing service professionals so that you may set your plumbing system up for success this season.
1. IS YOUR YEARLY PLUMBING INSPECTION COMPLETED OR SCHEDULED?
It is so crucial to conduct preventative maintenance; we can’t emphasize enough the significance of regular upkeep on your plumbing system. Once a year, your house’s plumbing system should be inspected and checked to ensure everything is functioning properly and that no underlying plumbing issues could develop into serious problems over time. If you want to avoid any plumbing disasters this winter, be sure to have a licensed plumber inspect your water heater and sump pump!
2. ARE ANY OF YOUR FAUCETS OR FIXTURES LEAKING OR DRIPPING?
Let’s get started with the most typical plumbing problem, leaks and drips. Consider all of your faucets, sinks, showers, baths, and toilets. If any faucets or plumbing fixtures leak or drip water, you’ll want to address the problem as soon as possible. So thoroughly inspect your faucets and plumbing fixtures, toilets, and beneath your sink drains to verify there are no problems. Though it may seem like a minor issue now, when problems like this persist, they can manifest into larger, more significant problems down the road. Therefore, it’s best to seal and leak or tighten any dripping faucets instead of postponing this chore until you risk the issue of frozen water during the winter – frozen water makes it that much harder for a plumber to assess.
3. ARE YOUR EXPOSED PIPES WRAPPED IN PIPE INSULATION?
If you have exposed pipes in your house, pipe insulation may be a smart idea. Pipe insulation kits are readily available at any home improvement store. We suggest this procedure since the state of Ohio has severe winter conditions. Pipes located in spaces that are unheated and exposed, such as basements, garages, or crawlspaces, are more susceptible to freezing and then bursting. To avoid this costly plumbing problem occurring in your home, it is our opinion that it’s worth taking the time to do some fall preparation on your pipes.
4. ARE YOUR GUTTERS CLEAN & CLEAR OF LEAVES OR DEBRIS?
Gutters that are clogged with filthy muck and sludge are frustrating and obstructive. Fallen leaves, as well as other outside debris, frequently fall right into your gutters and drains in the fall season, causing a dam-like obstruction that prevents rainfall and melted snow from draining freely. Because of this, it’s critical that your gutters are cleaned at least once throughout the fall. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional to complete the task is completely up to you. But whatever you choose to do, try to accomplish it before the holiday season. The last thing you want is overflowing gutters spilling over onto your loved ones when they visit. Gutter slime can also give off an unpleasant stench. Gross!
5. IS YOUR GARDEN HOSE PUT AWAY FOR THE FALL SEASON?
Don’t leave that garden hose attached outside. Many homeowners like fall because it means less lawn work! During the fall, grass and plant growth are unlikely to grow significantly. In fact, you may already have put away your lawn mower and gardening equipment for the year. Have you also secured the garden hose? So, be sure to do this immediately if you haven’t done so already. If you leave a garden hose out in the winter, the water inside can freeze and cause the hose to burst. This will lead to more plumbing issues if it’s still attached to the fixture. To prevent this, disconnect your garden hose, drain any water from it, and put it up for the season. Additionally, make sure that you turn off the faucet/fixture as well as any other fixtures that may be located inside.
It’s safe to assume that no one ever wants a plumbing issue to surface. And even though plumbing emergencies are Narrow Path Plumbing’s strong suit. We genuinely hope no unfortunate situations arise for you in the dead of winter. This is why we stress preventative maintenance so much! Stay ahead of the game and set your plumbing up for success while the weather allows.
Furthermore, take heart in knowing that if anything does happen, we will be at your side in a jiffy! Call Narrow Path Plumbing today at (937) 623-2619, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
