Seasonal Plumbing Tips For This And Every Fall
As fall continues on, the temperature outside will continue to dip. As colder weather settles in, it's a good idea as a homeowner to make sure your house is prepared for the coldest days of fall and the even colder winter weather that will follow. Here are some seasonal plumbing tips to keep in mind to make sure your plumbing system is prepared to make it safely through to next spring.
Check Your Pipe Insulation or Add It for the First Time
If you have exposed pipes in your basement or anywhere else in your home, you should know that it's easier for cold weather to cause problems for these particular pipes than it is for a pipe that is properly insulated. If you've already insulated your pipes, have a plumber inspect them to make sure the insulation is holding up. If you don't have any insulation at all, make this fall the season where you finally go into the colder days with your plumbing system better prepared for what's ahead. Insulation could prevent your pipes from freezing or bursting, and that could save you money on maintenance or repair costs.
Make Sure Your Water Heater is Up to the Task
There's nothing quite like a hot shower on a chilly fall or winter morning. But if it's been a while since you've given your water heater an inspection, it's a good idea to make sure everything is working properly. Your water heater can develop scaling over time that can reduce its efficiency and effectiveness, while also shortening its lifespan. Have a plumber property drain your water heater and remove the scaling so you can get through the season without issue.
Make Sure Your Sump Pump is Ready for an Emergency
The sump pump in your basement is what will prevent your basement from flooding in the event that water comes rushing in. If a frozen pipe bursts on you, you need to make sure your pump is up to the task of keeping your basement as dry as possible. If your sump pump can't handle the influx of water, you could end up with destroyed personal possessions, not to mention a huge recovery bill and or other long-term problems like mold development.
As a homeowner, fall is an important time of year when it comes to checking up on your plumbing system. For more information about how plumbers can prep your pipes for winter, contact a local plumbing company, like Edelman Inc.