Fall has arrived in Bergen County, New Jersey, and many homeowners are beginning to prepare their plumbing systems for the arrival of lower temperatures and brisk weather conditions. Along with setting aside time to perform plumbing maintenance tasks this season, it’s important for homeowners to understand a few of the more general plumbing issues that are uniquely inclined to develop in the fall. Read about two of the most commonly occurring plumbing difficulties noted below to aid you in preventing them throughout the season.
Blocked Drains
As the temperatures decline, you and your family are inclined to spend more of your time indoors. This, in conjunction with the emergence of the holiday season, often causes food particles to gather in pipes at a faster rate. Though it's vital to remain alert no matter what season it is, it's crucial to be cognizant of what you and your family put down your drains in the fall and winter.
If you don’t have a garbage disposal, make sure you drop most of your food remains in the trash, rather than into your sink. There are a myriad of different foods that can inflict major harm on your pipes if they get down the drain. Substances such as fats, oils, and grease can easily cling to the sides of your pipes and cause other substances to become stuck, which is apt to cause extensive clogs as time goes on.
The best means of circumventing the development of clogs in your garbage disposal this season is to prevent anything from going down your drains in the first place. Investing in a drain screen can act as a filter to block harmful substances from going down your drains and into your pipes.
Impaired Hot Water Heater
Your hot water heater will be running more often this fall and winter to neutralize the chilly temperatures, so the last thing you want to deal with is the inconvenience of a broken-down system. You can prepare in advance by having your hot water heater professionally inspected and serviced in the fall to ensure it is ready for the months ahead.