Fall can be a great time to tackle issues that will become more challenging during the winter months. You can get a head start on insulating pipes that aren’t already protected or replacing worn encasings. There are other common plumbing issues that you can get a jump start on this fall in preparation for the cooler weather.
4 Common Plumbing Issues to Handle this Autumn
We’ve compiled a list of the four most common fall plumbing issues that can turn into a serious problem if not handled before winter.
Drainage Issues: Slow draining sinks, showers that feel like standing tubs of water, or kitchen sinks that swirl but never seem to drain are all drainage issues that plague homeowners during fall. These types of issues can occur all year, but autumn seems to create conditions that make drainage issues more likely. During the autumn months, leaves, debris, and other yard and garden items find their way into plumbing systems. When this debris falls into plumbing systems, it can lead to blockages. Hiring a plumbing professional to help clear away debris that has traveled into your system can save a lot of time and money. You can prevent future clogs and blockages by installing drainage coverings.
Burst Pipes: While we don’t always see freezing temperatures during the winter months, a hard freeze or overnight drops in the ground temperature can lead to frozen pipes. When ice forms in your pipes, they expand and rupture. This is more of a winter issue, but late fall and early winter often blend into their own season, and homeowners are left unprepared for the colder temperatures when they arrive. You can always have your frozen pipes repaired, but insulating your pipes is the best plan. Not only will your pipes be protected, but you can also realize some energy savings. Hot water temperature losses are reduced, and you will find that you don’t need to heat as much water. Pipe insulation is an easy DIY project that can be completed without much experience. Many home improvement stores sell insulation kits complete with sized tubes and closures.
Water Heater Problems: As the temperature drops outdoors, your water heater will need to work harder to heat the water coming into your home. The ground temperature affects the temperature of the water that arrives into the home, and in many cases, the water is 25 degrees cooler than during the summer months. Your water heater has to work harder than it did during the summer to heat the water to a comfortable temperature. Depending on the hot water demand in your home, your water heater could overheat or malfunction from the additional stress depending on its age and maintenance record. Brining in a plumbing specialist at the beginning of autumn to inspect your water heater could identify any potential issues that are looming in the background.
Gutters: Draining issues apply to your yard as well as the drains inside your home, so clearing debris like fallen leaves and branches from your property can help rainwater drain from your property away from your foundation. When your gutters are clogged, it can prevent eavestroughs and downspouts from moving water away from your home. When water can’t drain off your roof or away from your property, your foundation and roof are at risk. Contact Wallner Plumbing Heating and Air today! We are available to provide emergency services 24/7. You can reach us by phone at (530) 223-5622 to schedule an appointment or inspection.
