When Fall arrives each year and thoughts turn to cooler temperatures and the coming Winter, it’s important not to neglect your plumbing system. There are several essential things you need to do to get your home ready for the season, and every homeowner should have a plumbing checklist so nothing is missed.

Here are a handful of plumbing maintenance tasks you should complete before the weather gets cold and the snow starts falling.

Drains and Sprinklers

Drains and sprinklers need to be shut off, and it is even a good idea to have any underground lines blown out before the freezing temperatures arrive. Leaving water in the system can only end up causing trouble for next year.

Exterior Water Lines and Faucets

It’s easy to forget about exterior water lines and outdoor spigots when you are busy doing other things, but these will freeze when it gets cold enough. By leaving the taps open, water can’t accumulate and freeze inside. It is also a great idea to shut off the water supply to those taps.

Inspect Your Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump in your basement, inspect it as part of your plumbing checklist. Make sure all the parts are in good working order. You will likely not require it throughout the Winter, but once the snow melts in Spring, you might need it to keep water out of your basement.

Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts might not seem like they belong on a plumbing checklist, but if they are clogged up with leaves and debris, it could cause trouble. A rainy Fall or fast-melting Spring could result in damage to your roof or flooding, as the water has nowhere to run. Making sure these areas are clear and water can flow freely.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

If you have any pipes on your property that will be exposed to the cold, it is wise to insulate them before it gets too cold. Any water in these pipes will freeze and expand, increasing the risk of a burst pipe that could have been avoided with some inexpensive foam pipe insulation which can be found at any home improvement store. Installation is as easy as sliding the insulation around the pipe.

Inspect the Water Heater

Giving your water heater a quick inspection, or having a professional do it, is another item to add to your plumbing checklist. Make sure there are no leaks around the base of the water heater and that you are getting hot water when needed. Any loud noises, unusual odours or fluctuating energy bills should also be examined to see if your water heater has an issue. If you have a trip booked during the Winter, you may want to consider a programmable thermostat for your water heater while you are gone.

If you would like to learn more about creating a plumbing maintenance checklist before the colder temperatures arrive, contact with the experts at Marco Plumbing today.