Your pipes don’t care that you’re busy. They’ll burst later on Christmas morning just to prove a point, so why not get things taken care of early?
The Essential Fall Plumbing Checklist
Inspect and Insulate Exposed Pipes
Walk through your basement, crawl spaces, and garage looking for exposed water lines. Pipes in unheated areas are prime candidates for freezing. Wrap them with foam pipe insulation or heat tape. It’s a $20 investment that can prevent thousands in damage!!
Red flag locations:
- Exterior walls where pipes run through uninsulated spaces
- Garage areas near overhead doors
- Crawl spaces with poor ventilation
- Basement areas near foundation walls
Test Your Water Heater Before Peak Demand
Your water heater works harder in winter, and there’s nothing worse than discovering it’s failing when you need hot water most. Schedule water heater maintenance now to:
- Flush sediment buildup that reduces efficiency
- Test the temperature and pressure relief valve
- Inspect the anode rod for corrosion
- Check electrical connections and gas venting
- Verify proper thermostat operation
Clear Your Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters create ice dams that can back water up under your roof and into your home. Clean gutters now, and make sure downspouts direct water at least 6 feet away from your foundation.
Shut Off and Drain Exterior Water Lines
Those outdoor spigots and sprinkler systems are winter’s favorite targets. Before the first freeze:
- Turn off water supply to exterior faucets
- Drain all remaining water from lines
- Remove and store garden hoses indoors
- Install insulated faucet covers for extra protection
Check for Hidden Leaks Now
Small leaks become big problems when temperatures drop. Walk through your home checking:
- Under-sink cabinets for moisture or water stains
- Around toilets for loose connections or wobbling
- Basement or crawl space ceilings for dripping
- Water meter readings with all water off (if it’s still moving, you have a leak)
Emergency Prevention Pays Off
Consider this: a single burst pipe can cause $5,000-$10,000 in damage, not counting the hassle of dealing with insurance claims and contractors during the busy winter season. Professional plumbing repairs and preventive maintenance cost a fraction of emergency damage.
Create Your Winter Emergency Plan
Even with perfect preparation, emergencies can happen. Make sure you know:
- Where your main water shut-off valve is located
- How to turn off individual fixture shut-offs
- Where your water heater’s shut-off controls are
- Emergency contact information for reliable plumbing service
Take Action This Fall
Don’t become a cautionary tale. Contact Gilman Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today at 804-207-3881 or schedule service online for your fall plumbing inspection.
Our certified plumbing professionals serve Richmond, Ashland, Mechanicsville, Glen Allen, Midlothian, and the Northern Neck with reliable service that keeps your water flowing all winter long. Call now while we can still squeeze you into our schedule. Your future self will thank you when everyone else is dealing with frozen pipe disasters.
