As the leaves change and cooler temperatures settle in Windsor, many homeowners focus on raking leaves, cleaning gutters, and winterizing their gardens. But one critical task is often overlooked: preparing your plumbing for the fall season. Proper plumbing maintenance now can save you from costly repairs, prevent winter emergencies, and keep your home running smoothly all season long.
Here’s your ultimate plumbing maintenance checklist for Windsor homes.
1. Inspect and Insulate Exposed Pipes
Cold weather increases the risk of frozen pipes, which can burst and cause significant water damage. Pipes in unheated areas such as garages, crawl spaces, and exterior walls should be insulated before temperatures drop.
- Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape for vulnerable areas.
- Pay close attention to basement pipes near drafty windows.
- Seal any cracks or gaps that allow cold air in.
Pro tip: Repairing a burst pipe can cost thousands, while insulation is an affordable and effective preventative measure.
2. Schedule a Professional Drain Cleaning
Fall is the perfect time to clear your drains before holiday cooking and gatherings put extra strain on your plumbing. Grease, food particles, and hair can cause slow drainage or full blockages.
Our Windsor drain cleaning services use both HydroScrub® Drain Jetting and traditional methods to keep sinks, showers, and basement floor drains flowing freely. Older homes can especially benefit from this preventative step to avoid winter sewer backups.
3. Test Your Sump Pump
Heavy fall rains and melting snow can overwhelm a sump pump if it is not working correctly. Testing now helps prevent a flooded basement later.
- Pour a bucket of water into the pit, the pump should turn on immediately.
- Listen for strange noises or delayed activation.
- Schedule a professional inspection once a year.
Pro tip: Installing a battery backup can ensure that your sump pump works during power outages.
4. Service Your Water Heater
As temperatures drop, your water heater works harder to supply warm showers and hot water for laundry and dishes. Proper maintenance keeps it efficient and reliable.
- Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup.
- Check the anode rod for corrosion.
- Set the temperature to 120°F for safety and efficiency.
If your water heater is over 10-15 years old, you may consider replacing it before winter. Our team at Mr. Rooter Windsor offers fast installation for both tank and tankless systems.
5. Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Faucets
Frozen outdoor taps are one of the most common causes of burst pipes in Ontario. Before the first frost:
- Disconnect and store all hoses.
- Shut off the water supply to exterior taps from inside your home.
- Open the faucets to drain any remaining water.
6. Check for Leaks, Even Small Ones
A slow drip might not seem urgent, but it wastes water and can cause hidden damage over time.
- Inspect under sinks, behind toilets, and near appliances.
- Watch for water stains, dampness, or musty smells.
- Repair leaks quickly or call a professional plumber.
7. Inspect Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
In a plumbing emergency, knowing how to quickly shut off your home’s water can save thousands of dollars in damage.
- Locate your main shut-off valve, often in the basement.
- Turn it on and off to ensure it works smoothly.
- If it is stiff or stuck, have it serviced before winter.
8. Prepare for Holiday Hosting
Extra guests mean extra demand on your plumbing. A pre-holiday plumbing check can prevent inconvenient problems during family gatherings.
Our team can:
- Inspect drains and toilets for proper function.
- Service garbage disposals.
- Ensure your water heater can handle increased usage.
Need Professional Plumbing Service?
From drain cleaning to water heater service and full plumbing maintenance, our licensed plumbers provide professional, friendly service with upfront pricing. Protect your home all season long by booking your fall plumbing maintenance appointment today.
Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing Windsor to schedule your service and enjoy a worry-free season.
