As the crisp air of autumn settles in, now is the perfect time to make sure your plumbing is ready for the colder months ahead. When it comes to plumbing in Southampton, it’s important to take preventative steps before temperatures drop to avoid costly repairs or unexpected emergencies. That’s why we’ve put together this fall plumbing checklist to prepare pipes, fixtures, and systems before winter. Taking care of these simple tasks now can save you time, money, and stress later.
At Carney All Seasons, we treat your home as if it were our own. By following this guide, you’ll gain peace of mind knowing your plumbing is protected, efficient, and ready for the months to come.
1. Inspect and Insulate Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common problems homeowners face during winter. Before the first frost hits, check your exposed pipes in basements, garages, crawl spaces, and outside walls. Insulate them with foam sleeves or wrapping to prevent freezing. This simple step could save you from the stress and expense of burst pipes later.
2. Drain and Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Leaving hoses attached to outdoor faucets can trap water inside and lead to cracks or leaks. Disconnect all hoses, drain them, and store them indoors. Don’t forget to shut off and drain outdoor spigots, too. These small tasks play a big role in preventing plumbing headaches during freezing weather.
3. Service Your Water Heater
As temperatures drop, your household depends on your water heater more than ever. Fall is the ideal season to schedule a professional inspection. We’ll check for sediment buildup, test the pressure relief valve, and make sure the system is running efficiently. If your water heater is nearing the 10–12 year mark, it might be time to consider a replacement before winter hits.
4. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and put unnecessary strain on your home’s drainage system. Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure water flows away from your home properly. This not only protects your foundation but also helps keep your plumbing system functioning smoothly.
5. Test Your Sump Pump
Your sump pump is your first line of defense against basement flooding, especially during heavy fall rains and spring snowmelt. Test it by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to make sure it activates correctly. If you notice unusual sounds or sluggish operation, schedule a service call with us before winter storms arrive.
6. Schedule a Professional Plumbing Checkup
While DIY steps are helpful, nothing replaces the trained eye of a licensed plumber. At Carney All Seasons, we can inspect your entire system, identify potential trouble spots, and handle small issues before they turn into expensive problems.
By tackling this fall plumbing checklist now, you’ll safeguard your Southampton home from winter’s challenges. From protecting pipes to ensuring your water heater and sump pump are in top shape, these steps keep your plumbing reliable all season long.
Call Carney All Seasons today! We do what’s right for customers.