Before the start of the fall season, the weather conditions can be quite unpredictable with storms, heavy rains, and strong winds striking suddenly. These weather conditions can cause damage to your home’s plumbing system if not prepared properly. Here are 10 essential plumbing checks every homeowner should do before the fall storms hit.
1. Inspect Your Gutters and Downspouts
Make sure your gutters are free of leaves, twigs, and other debris. Clogged gutters can cause rainwater to overflow and collect near your home’s foundation, leading to structural issues and basement flooding. Check the downspouts to see that they direct water away from your home and not towards it.
2. Check for Outdoor Faucet Leaks
The weather turns cool due to the onset of fall. At this time, even a small leak can freeze and cause the pipes to burst. This is why it’s important to inspect all outdoor spigots and hoses. Disconnect the hoses, drain, and store them indoors. If you notice any drips, get them fixed promptly before they cause more damage.
3. Test Your Sump Pump
The sump pump plays a crucial role during heavy rains. To test it, you can pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and see if the pump starts to work and drains the water properly. If the water drains slowly or doesn’t drain at all, the sump pump may require professional servicing.
4. Inspect and Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes that are in unheated areas such as basements, carriages, etc., are prone to freezing. You can use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to protect them. Frozen pipes can crack and cause serious water damage, which is why it is better to insulate them early on instead of dealing with repairs later.
5. Clear Storm Drains Nearby
Check the storm drains nearby and clear away leaves and debris from them. Blocked drains can result in dirty water backing up during heavy rains and flooding your property. By keeping them clear, you can keep your home and community safer.
6. Flush Your Water Heater
Over time, sediments build up inside the water heater, especially during summer. Fall is a great time to flush these sediments out of your water heater to improve the efficiency of the appliance and extend its lifespan.
7. Inspect Your Sewer Line
Heavy rain can affect the sewer lines, resulting in backups. If you have noticed slow drainage or weird noises in the toilets, you should get a professional inspection done.
8. Seal Any Cracks Around Pipes
Check the areas where pipes enter your home. Look out for cracks and gaps, especially in basement walls. These cracks should be promptly sealed to prevent water seepage and moisture from entering inside.
9. Check Water Pressure
High water pressure can put stress on the pipes, especially during storm season. Use a pressure gauge to check the water pressure, ensuring it’s between 40 to 60 PSI. Also, test your main shutoff valve to ensure it functions smoothly.
10. Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
Although many of these checks can be done by yourself, getting a professional to inspect your plumbing can help ensure nothing gets missed. Professionals have a complete checklist and know which areas are critical and need thorough inspection.
Call CGC Home Services
Storms often strike without a warning, so it’s better to stay prepared beforehand. Connect with CGC Home Services to schedule your plumbing inspection. Our plumbing company in Jacksonville has been helping homeowners keep their plumbing in excellent shape for years. Call us today to enjoy a safer fall season ahead.
