Top 5 Plumbing Tasks to Check Off Your Fall Home Maintenance List

As the leaves begin to change and temperatures start to drop, fall is the perfect time to prepare your home’s plumbing for the colder months ahead. Taking proactive steps now not only helps you avoid costly repairs but also ensures your plumbing system runs smoothly all winter long. A little effort in autumn can make a big difference once freezing temperatures and heavy holiday usage arrive. Here are five essential plumbing tasks every homeowner should tackle this season according to the experts at Parson Plumbing and Drains, your source for all things plumbing in Columbus.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Outdoor temperatures can dip quickly in late fall, putting your pipes at risk of freezing. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst, leading to serious water damage and expensive repairs. Insulating exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, crawl spaces, and under kitchen or bathroom cabinets provides an extra layer of protection. Foam insulation sleeves or even heat tape can be used to keep pipes warm and prevent freezing during those first harsh cold snaps.

Service Your Water Heater

As demand for hot water rises during chilly weather, your water heater will be working harder to keep up. Schedule a professional inspection to flush out sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency and shorten the lifespan of the unit. A technician can also check for leaks, inspect the pressure relief valve, and ensure the thermostat is set correctly for energy savings and optimal performance. Taking care of these maintenance tasks in the fall means you’ll have reliable hot water all winter long, especially during the holidays when guests may increase usage.

Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Falling leaves and seasonal debris can clog gutters and downspouts, causing water to back up and potentially damage your home’s foundation or roof. Water that cannot properly drain away from the house can also seep into basements or crawl spaces, creating mold or mildew issues. Cleaning gutters thoroughly in the fall and checking downspouts for obstructions ensures proper drainage and reduces the risk of basement flooding. Installing gutter guards can help minimize future clogs and make maintenance easier as the season progresses.

Check Outdoor Faucets and Hoses

Before the first hard freeze, disconnect garden hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and install frost-proof covers. Water left inside hoses or spigots can freeze, expand, and damage the fixtures, leading to costly repairs. If your home has shutoff valves for exterior water lines, turn them off and drain the lines completely. These simple steps take only a few minutes but can save you from the headaches of burst pipes or broken fixtures once winter arrives.

Inspect Sump Pump Operation

Autumn rains can lead to sudden increases in groundwater, making a properly functioning sump pump critical to protecting your basement or crawl space. Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to make sure it activates and pumps water away from your home as intended. If you rely on your pump to prevent flooding, consider adding a backup power source such as a battery system to keep it running during heavy storms or power outages. Regular maintenance and testing now will give you confidence that the pump will perform when you need it most.

Taking these simple steps in the fall can save you from unexpected plumbing emergencies during the colder months and help maintain your home’s value. Parson Plumbing and Drains can assist with inspections, maintenance, and any necessary repairs to keep your plumbing system in top shape all season long, so you can enjoy a warm, worry-free winter. Contact us today to get started.