Prepare your plumbing for Fall...

Weather changes in autumn can bring about changes in your home’s plumbing system. Preparing for these changes can prevent damage to the pipes and protect your home from leaks. The following tips will help you get ready for the coming cold weather.

Insulate Pipes

Pipes that freeze overnight can burst, causing hundreds or even thousands of dollars in damage to your home and property. While there are many tricks that homeowners use to prevent their pipes from freezing (like leaving the tap running overnight), installation of pipe insulation is one of the best methods that you can use to help keep your pipes warm. Self-adhesive pipe insulation is easy to cut down to the right size and also easy to attach to pipes. Simply measure the length of each pipe, use a utility knife to slice the insulation to the right length, then attach.

Disconnect Your Hose

Disconnect all garden hoses from your home’s exterior and drain the water if possible. Leave the hose sitting in a garage or somewhere else sheltered. Have a plumber fix any leaking faucets that were connected to hoses to prevent icicles from forming later in the season.

Inspect Your Water Heater

Your home’s water heater may need to work extra hard this winter to keep producing the expected amount of hot water for your home. Before the cold weather begins, inspect your hot water heater for signs of deterioration. Rust, scale, puddles of water and other warning signs should be addressed immediately. While you’re inspecting the unit, check the temperature pressure relief valve to prevent the unit from exploding, and drain the existing sediment in the bottom of the tank. This will help ensure that your water heater is prepared to last through the coming winter.

Fall is just around the corner. Now is the time to get your home and plumbing ready for fall. To find out more, or to get your home’s water heater serviced, contact Huse Plumbing LLC.

We’re here to keep your home free from water damage this autumn!