Fall Plumbing Checklist: Get Your Home Ready for Winter

Fall offers the perfect opportunity to prevent winter plumbing issues. As temperatures drop, plumbing systems become susceptible to freezing. By addressing potential issues now, you’ll avoid needing plumbing repairs during winter. This season also gives you time to identify and fix any existing problems before the cold sets in. Take advantage of fall’s milder weather to get ahead of any issues. With the right maintenance, you can keep your plumbing safe and efficient all season.

Check for Leaks

Checking for leaks now can save you from big problems later. A simple way to check your toilet for leaks is by using food coloring. Add a few drops to the toilet tank and wait 15 minutes without flushing. If the water in the bowl changes color, you have a leak. Also, inspect under sinks for moisture or signs of water damage. Don’t forget to check faucets and hose bibbs for drips. Early leak detection can help you save money on your water bill, prevent waste, and avoid more serious issues during the winter months.

Insulate Your Pipes

Insulating your pipes before winter helps prevent frozen and burst pipes. When temperatures drop, exposed pipes can freeze and burst, leading to water damage and expensive repairs. Start by wrapping pipes in unheated areas, like basements, garages, and crawl spaces, with foam insulation. For added protection, use heat tape on vulnerable sections of the pipe. Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to let warm air circulate. Don’t forget to disconnect outdoor hoses and shut off their water supply. A little preparation now will keep your pipes safe all winter long.

Close Foundation Vents

Closing your foundation vents in the fall helps protect your pipes from freezing. Cold air entering through open vents can chill the area around your plumbing, increasing the risk of frozen pipes. You can keep warm air inside by closing or blocking off these vents. Use vent covers or blocks to seal them securely. This small step helps maintain a stable temperature in your crawl space and prevents costly pipe damage during winter.

Put Your Furnace on Low While on Vacation

When you go on vacation, you can lower your furnace to save energy. Keep it set to around 55 degrees F to prevent your pipes from freezing. This temperature ensures your home stays warm enough to avoid any plumbing issues while you’re away. Don’t turn the furnace off completely, which can cause your pipes to reach below-freezing temperatures. Keeping it low strikes the perfect balance between energy savings and plumbing protection.

Choose Alliance Plumbing To Winterize Your Plumbing

Alliance Plumbing offers expert maintenance and inspection services to prepare your plumbing for winter. We’ll check for leaks, insulate pipes, and ensure everything runs smoothly before cold weather hits. Our team can help prevent frozen pipes and costly repairs with proactive care.

Don’t wait for problems to arise — schedule your winter plumbing check with Alliance Plumbing today! Call us now to protect your home before winter arrives.