Fall is here in The Woodlands, TX, and many residents are still getting back into their seasonal autumn routines. At the same time, all homeowners should be thinking about how they can prepare their plumbing for the upcoming cold months in order to avoid an onset of plumbing problems during the holiday season. Here’s how you can get your plumbing system prepped for the chilliest periods of the year.
Keep Your Pipes Insulated
Your pipes need to stay warm in the fall and winter just like you. To prevent them from prolonged exposure to gradually dropping temperatures, set aside some time in the fall to insulate your pipes now before the weather gets chillier.
Repair Leaks
A leaky pipe may seem like a trivial issue at first, but it will ultimately develop into a more serious problem if left unhandled for an extended period of time. Check your pipes for any signs of leakage and call a professional plumber to come and repair the leaks as soon as possible this season. Pay especially close attention to the spaces around your toilets, bathtubs, sinks, and showers, as these areas are where leaks most often occur. If your home has a basement, be sure to look around for any signs of leaks down there as well.
Clean Your Water Heater
Autumn is the best time to prepare your water heater for the cold months that are just around the bend. Water heaters are prone to experiencing sediment buildups. This not only causes leaks, but also decreases the effectiveness of a unit overall. Be sure to flush your water heater and examine for rust stains, which may indicate that it's time to start looking at replacement heaters. In addition, you may want to consider having your local plumber come to flush your system and give it a comprehensive cleanse before the temperatures get too cold.
Look at Your Sump Pump
Your home’s sump pump is your first line of defense against basement flooding. Ensure it is working correctly and is not experiencing a clog.