It’s been a hot summer in Central Indiana including Westfield, Noblesville, Carmel, Zionsville and many of the neighborhoods near Isley’s Plumbing’s home base. While we say goodbye to summer heat and head toward an Indiana winter — you might be wondering what fall maintenance you should do to prepare your plumbing for cold temperatures including your pipes, water heater, sump pump and outdoor faucets. What jobs should you be adding to your fall to-do list? Here are a few tips to get you started!
Unhook your outdoor garden hoses.
This allows for any contained water to drain and prevents later winter freezing.
Shut off any outdoor faucet valves.
Make sure any outdoor faucet valves have been closed before that first winter freeze hits Indiana.
Check for gaps around your home.
When you are outdoors unhooking those garden hoses, take a look around at any gaps that need to be sealed up.
Clean clogged gutters.
Now that fall is here and the leaves are hitting the ground – take the time to clean out your gutters to prevent any water backup or freezing of standing water in your gutters.
Inspect and insulate your sump pump.
It is a good idea to test your sump pump’s efficiency before the fall rains come. Also, if your sump pump is going to be exposed to extreme winter temperatures, it could freeze and be unable to operate efficiently. Make sure it is properly insulated.
Check your sewer lines.
Clogged sewer lines can cause a multitude of problems not to mention lead to costly repairs. Before winter hits, inspect your sewer lines for any signs of blockage or damage.
Flush your water heater.
As we move into winter your water heather will be working harder to provide the same level of efficiency. Make sure there is no sediment buildup and that lines are draining properly.
Inspect pipes.
Double check pipes to make sure they will be protected during the winter months and insulate any pipes that need extra protection including in your garage, basement, crawl space, floor cavities, exterior walls, etc.
Not sure where to start or need a professional? No problem – Isley Plumbing can assist in inspecting and preparing your home for winter! Call today at 317-608-0673 or visit https://www.isleyplumbing.com/ to schedule.