How to Prepare Your Home for Fall

As the weather starts to cool down, it’s important to prepare your home plumbing for the fall season. Here are a few tips to help you do just that:

  • Check for leaks. This is the most important thing you can do to prevent costly damage to your plumbing system. Leaks can be small and difficult to spot, so it’s important to look carefully around all of your faucets, pipes, and appliances. If you find a leak, fix it immediately.
  • Winterize outdoor faucets. If you have outdoor faucets, you’ll need to winterize them to prevent them from freezing and bursting. This involves draining the water from the pipes and covering the faucets with insulation.
  • Insulate your pipes. If you have pipes that are located in unheated areas of your home, such as the basement or attic, you can insulate them to help prevent them from freezing. This can be done with pipe insulation foam or heat tape.
  • Have your water heater serviced. Your water heater works harder during the winter months, so it’s important to have it serviced to make sure it’s in good working condition. This includes having the anode rod replaced and the tank flushed.
  • Check your drains. Fall leaves can clog your drains, so it’s a good idea to check them periodically and clear out any debris. You can also pour a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar down each drain to help keep them clean.

By following these tips, you can help protect your home plumbing from the cold weather and prevent costly repairs.

"By regularly inspecting and maintaining your home's systems, you can identify problems early on and fix them before they cause major damage."