As the leaves begin to change and temperatures start to drop, it’s the perfect time to give your home’s plumbing system a little attention. Maryland’s chilly autumn weather can quickly turn into freezing conditions, and taking preventive steps now can help you avoid major plumbing issues later in the season.
At Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating, we know how important it is to get ahead of seasonal maintenance. Here’s your go-to fall plumbing checklist to help you protect your home and your wallet before winter arrives.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
When the temperature drops, exposed pipes—especially those in basements, crawl spaces, garages, or along exterior walls—are at risk of freezing and bursting. Insulating these pipes with foam sleeves or heat tape can help prevent costly water damage and emergency repairs.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Forgetting to detach garden hoses from outdoor spigots is one of the most common (and preventable) fall mistakes. Leaving them connected can trap water in the faucet, leading to frozen pipes and potential flooding. Disconnect all hoses, drain them, and store them indoors to keep them in good shape for spring.
Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Faucets
In addition to removing hoses, you should also locate your outdoor shut-off valves and turn them off. Then open the outdoor faucets to drain any remaining water. If your home has frost-proof spigots, this step is still a good idea for extraprotection.
Check Your Water Heater
As cooler weather arrives, your water heater has to work harder to maintain consistent temperatures. Fall is the perfect time to inspect it for signs of wear, flush out sediment buildup, and ensure it’s operating efficiently. If your water heater is older or showing signs of failure, it might be time to consider a replacement before the demand increases in winter.
Test Your Sump Pump
Heavy autumn rains can test your sump pump’s reliability. Make sure yours is working properly by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit to see if it kicks on and drains the water. If it doesn’t, call a professional before the next downpour.
Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and pool around your foundation—leading to leaks or even flooding. Clean out leaves and debris, and ensure downspouts direct water away from your home. This small maintenance task can save you from bigger headaches.
Check for Hidden Leaks
Look under sinks, behind toilets, and in the basement for signs of dripping or pooled water. Even small leaks can worsen in cold weather and lead to mold growth or pipe damage. Catching them now can help you avoid larger repairs later.
Ready for Fall? Let Michael Runk Handle the Rest.
Getting your plumbing in shape for fall doesn’t have to be a hassle—especially with the help of a trusted professional. At Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating, we offer full-service plumbing inspections, water heater maintenance, leak repairs, and more to keep your home protected year-round.
Schedule your fall plumbing tune-up today and enjoy peace of mind all season long. Give us a call or contact us online to get started.