7 Fall Plumbing Tips for Homeowners in Des Moines, Iowa
As the crisp autumn air settles over Des Moines, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your home’s plumbing system for the cooler months ahead. Fall is the perfect time to tackle routine maintenance to avoid the costly repairs that can come with winter’s freezing temperatures. By taking a few proactive steps now, you can ensure that your plumbing stays in top shape all season long. Here are seven essential fall plumbing tips for homeowners in Des Moines.
1. Inspect and Insulate Outdoor Faucets and Pipes
One of the most important tasks to tackle in the fall is preparing outdoor faucets and exposed pipes for freezing weather. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands, which can lead to bursting pipes and significant water damage.
Start by disconnecting and draining any garden hoses. Leaving hoses attached to outdoor spigots can trap water in the faucet, which can freeze and cause damage. Once the hoses are removed, inspect your outdoor faucets for leaks. If you notice any dripping or water spots, consider repairing them before temperatures drop.
Next, insulate any exposed outdoor pipes. You can use foam pipe insulation to protect pipes from freezing, which can save you from dealing with expensive repairs when winter arrives.
2. Check Your Water Heater
Fall is a great time to give your water heater some attention. As temperatures cool down, you’ll rely on your water heater more frequently for warm showers, laundry, and dishwashing. To ensure your water heater is running efficiently, follow these steps:
- Flush the tank: Over time, sediment and minerals can build up in the water heater’s tank, reducing its efficiency and potentially leading to a breakdown. Flushing the tank will remove sediment and improve the unit’s performance.
- Check the temperature: Lowering your water heater temperature to 120°F can prevent scalding, reduce energy usage, and prolong the life of your water heater.
- Inspect for leaks: Look around the base of your water heater for any signs of moisture or leaks. If you notice any, it’s a good idea to call a plumber for a thorough inspection.
3. Clear Your Gutters and Downspouts
While gutters and downspouts are not part of your home’s plumbing system, they play a critical role in preventing water damage. When leaves and debris clog your gutters, water can overflow and pool around your home’s foundation, leading to leaks and potential plumbing issues.
Cleaning out your gutters in the fall ensures that water flows properly through your drainage system, helping to prevent basement flooding and foundation damage. Additionally, check that your downspouts are directed away from your home to keep water from seeping into the foundation.
4. Test Your Sump Pump
If your home has a basement, you likely have a sump pump to prevent flooding. Sump pumps are especially important in the fall, as heavy rains and melting snow can lead to water accumulation around your home.
To ensure your sump pump is working properly, test it by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should activate automatically and begin draining the water. If it doesn’t, you may need to have it inspected or replaced by a professional plumber. Consider installing a backup battery or water-powered sump pump in case of a power outage during heavy storms.
5. Inspect Your Sewer Line
As leaves begin to fall, they can make their way into your home’s drainage system, especially if you have any cracks or leaks in your sewer line. Tree roots can also grow into sewer lines, causing blockages and backups that can be costly and inconvenient to fix.
To avoid potential problems, consider scheduling a professional sewer line inspection in the fall. A plumber can use a camera to inspect the inside of your sewer pipes, identifying any potential issues before they become major problems. If you’ve noticed slow drains or gurgling noises from your plumbing, it’s a good idea to have your sewer line checked out as soon as possible.
6. Check for Leaks and Drips
Leaks can go unnoticed during the summer months, but as the weather cools down, it’s important to check for any signs of water damage in your home. Even a small drip from a faucet or pipe can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time and lead to higher utility bills.
Take the time to inspect your home’s faucets, toilets, and pipes for leaks. Pay special attention to areas under sinks, in your basement, and around water appliances. If you notice any moisture or water damage, contact a plumber to address the issue before it becomes a more serious problem.
7. Prepare Your Pipes for Cold Weather
Des Moines winters can be harsh, and frozen pipes are a common problem during the colder months. To avoid the headache of burst pipes and water damage, it’s important to take steps to protect your plumbing in the fall.
Start by identifying any pipes that are in unheated areas of your home, such as the garage, basement, or crawl spaces. These pipes are most vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Insulate these pipes using foam pipe insulation or heat tape to keep them from freezing.
Additionally, make sure to close and drain any interior shut-off valves that lead to outdoor faucets. This will prevent water from sitting in your pipes and freezing when temperatures drop.
Call Advanced Plumbing for Your Fall Plumbing Needs
By following these fall plumbing tips, you can help protect your home from the hazards of cold weather and ensure that your plumbing system runs smoothly throughout the season. If you need assistance with any of these tasks or have concerns about your home’s plumbing, the expert team at Advanced Plumbing in Des Moines is here to help.
From water heater maintenance to pipe insulation and leak repairs, we provide a full range of plumbing services to keep your home safe and comfortable all year long. Contact us today to schedule a plumbing inspection or service appointment before winter arrives!
Taking care of your plumbing in the fall is a proactive way to prevent issues from cropping up during the colder months. With these seven tips, you can save yourself time, money, and stress while ensuring that your plumbing is ready to handle whatever winter throws your way.