Even in beautiful northern California, it’s possible to experience occasional freezing temperatures. Before the chill of winter sets in, it’s essential to make sure your home’s plumbing is ready to handle the colder months. By taking a few preventative steps and working with professional plumbers in Santa Rosa, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your plumbing system runs smoothly throughout the winter.
What to Do Before Winter
We’ve listed a few of the most important things you should do before the winter cold hits your plumbing system. Use this as your autumn plumbing checklist:
Inspect for Leaks
Even a small leak could require emergency plumbing services if freezing temperatures cause the pipe to burst. Check under sinks, around appliances, and along outdoor pipes. If you find any leaks, be sure to have them repaired immediately to avoid potential water damage or skyrocketing water bills.
Drain Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
Disconnect and drain garden hoses, as leftover water can freeze and damage the hose or faucet. After draining the hoses, store them indoors for the winter. Don’t forget to shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain any remaining water to prevent frozen pipes.
Check Your Water Heater
It’s a good idea to flush out sediment buildup from your water heater to improve efficiency and prevent clogs. You may also want to hire professional water heater services to inspect the unit to ensure it’s in good condition. You don’t want to run out of hot water when the winter weather sets in, so if your water heater is aging or showing signs of wear, it’s a good idea to consider getting a new water heater installed.
Test Your Sump Pump
Autumn rains can cause unexpected flooding, and a functioning sump pump will protect your basement or crawl space from water damage. Test the sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to ensure it activates properly. If your sump pump is old or showing signs of failure, it’s time to replace it before winter arrives.
Schedule a Plumbing Inspection
Autumn is a great time to schedule a professional plumbing inspection. A reputable plumbing contractor can spot potential issues before they become major problems during the winter months. From checking your water heater and pipes to inspecting drains and sewer lines, a professional inspection from Yorkshire Plumbing can give you peace of mind and save you from unexpected plumbing emergencies.
Inspect Your Septic System
If your home uses a septic system, fall is an ideal time to inspect and pump it if necessary. Cold weather can cause septic tanks to freeze, leading to blockages and potential backups. Regular septic maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and ensures your system continues to function properly throughout the winter.
Professional Plumbers to Help You Winterize – Yorkshire Plumbing
Is your plumbing ready for winter? Let Yorkshire Plumbing help! Whether you need pipe insulation, water heater maintenance, or a professional plumbing inspection, our experienced plumbers in Santa Rosa are here to assist.
Contact Yorkshire Plumbing or give us a call at (707) 492-9656 today for expert service and keep your home safe from winter plumbing problems.