Fall Plumbing Checklist: Prepare Your Home for Colder Weather

As the crisp air begins to settle in Westwood, it’s time to think ahead and prepare your home’s plumbing for the colder months. A little maintenance now can save you from dealing with frozen pipes, broken water heaters, and costly emergency repairs when the temperatures drop. Here’s your go-to checklist to ensure your plumbing system is winter-ready.
 

When temperatures dip below freezing, exposed pipes—especially those in unheated areas like basements, garages, and exterior walls—are at risk of freezing and bursting.
 
Identify at-risk pipes: Look for any pipes in unheated areas of your home, as well as those in exterior walls.
 
Apply insulation: Use foam pipe insulation sleeves or wrap pipes with heat tape to provide a protective barrier against the cold.
 
Seal gaps: Check for cracks or openings around your home’s foundation, windows, and doors that allow cold air to reach pipes. Caulk or seal these openings to keep your home’s temperature more consistent.
 

As winter approaches, you’ll be relying on your water heater more than ever. Now is the perfect time to perform a little maintenance to avoid a breakdown during the cold months.
 
Flush the tank: Over time, sediment builds up in your water heater, reducing its efficiency. Draining and flushing the tank can help it run smoothly.
 
Check the temperature: To prevent scalding and conserve energy, make sure your water heater is set no higher than 120°F (49°C)
 
Inspect for leaks: A leaky water heater can quickly become a big problem in winter. Look for any signs of moisture around the tank and schedule a professional inspection if needed.
 

Outdoor water fixtures, hoses, and irrigation systems are particularly vulnerable to freezing, which can lead to burst pipes and water damage inside your home.
 
Disconnect garden hoses: Leaving hoses attached to outdoor faucets can trap water in the pipes, leading to freezing and potential bursts. Be sure to disconnect and store hoses.
 
Shut off and drain outdoor faucets: Locate the shutoff valves for your outdoor faucets and turn them off for the season. Open the faucets to let any remaining water drain out.
 
Winterize your irrigation system: If you have an irrigation system, make sure to drain it and shut it down properly to avoid damage from freezing water in the lines.
 

Heavy autumn rains and melting snow can overwhelm your home’s drainage system if it’s not functioning properly.
 
Test your sump pump: Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to make sure the pump activates and drains the water quickly. This will ensure it’s ready to handle any increased groundwater during winter.
 
Clean gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters can lead to water buildup around your home’s foundation, increasing the risk of flooding. Clean them out before winter to prevent blockages.
 
Clear drains: Make sure outdoor drains are clear of leaves, dirt, and debris so that water can flow freely away from your home.
 

Even inside your home, some pipes are more prone to freezing than others. Taking steps to keep them warm can save you from a mid-winter disaster.
 
Keep cabinet doors open: On particularly cold nights, open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
 
Let faucets drip: If you suspect a pipe may freeze, let the faucet trickle a bit. Running water, even a small amount, can prevent a pipe from freezing.
 
Maintain a consistent temperature: Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you’re away, toensure that pipes stay above freezing.
 

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, plumbing problems happen. Having an emergency plan in place will help you respond quickly and minimize damage.
 
Locate your main water shutoff valve: Know where your main shutoff valve is in case you need to turn off the water quickly during a plumbing emergency.
 
Keep our number handy: You can always reach us the Plumbing Solutions team at 781-326-6004
 
We’ve seen a lot and have dealt with the worst, so trust us when we tell you some preventative steps in November can save you a lot of headaches in January.