Fall Plumbing Maintenance

As the leaves begin to fall and temperatures start to dip, it’s a clear sign that winter is just around the corner. Fall is the perfect time to get your home ready for the colder months ahead and one area that’s often overlooked is your plumbing maintenance.

Frozen pipes, clogged drains, and water heater failures can be expensive and stressful in the dead of winter. To avoid unpleasant surprises, here are 7 important plumbing maintenance tasks you should consider having a professional plumber handle this fall.

1. Inspect and Insulate Exposed Pipes

When temperatures drop below freezing, exposed pipes are at high risk of bursting. A plumber can inspect your plumbing... especially in unheated areas like basements, crawlspaces, garages, and attics, and install proper insulation. This small step can prevent costly water damage and emergency repairs later.

2. Service Your Water Heater

You’ll be relying heavily on your water heater during the colder months, so it’s wise to have it professionally serviced in the fall. A plumber can:

• Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup

• Check the anode rod

• Inspect for corrosion or leaks

• Ensure the thermostat is set efficiently

Regular maintenance can improve efficiency, extend the life of your heater, and ensure you’re not left without hot water during the coldest days.

3. Drain and Shut Off Outdoor Faucets

Outdoor spigots and garden hoses can freeze and burst if not properly winterized. A plumber can:

• Shut off water to exterior faucets

• Drain any remaining water from the lines

• Install frost-proof hose bibs if needed

It’s a quick fix, but skipping it could result in significant damage.

4. Check Sump Pumps and Drainage Systems

If your home has a basement, a working sump pump is critical during fall rains and melting snow. A plumber can test your sump pump, clean out debris, and ensure it’s ready for the season. They can also inspect your drainage system and gutters to make sure water is flowing away from your home.

5. Inspect Sewer Lines and Septic Tanks

Falling leaves and tree roots can cause major blockages in your sewer lines. In fall, plumbers often perform sewer camera inspections to catch issues early, before frozen ground or snow complicates repairs. If you have a septic system, fall is also a good time to pump the tank if it's due.

6. Clean Out Clogged Drains

Kitchen and bathroom drains often see more use as people spend more time indoors and prepare holiday meals. A plumber can clear out buildup in your pipes to prevent backups, slow drains, or unpleasant odors, all things you don’t want to deal with during holiday hosting.

7. Test Plumbing Fixtures and Shut-Off Valves

Over time, shut-off valves can corrode or become hard to turn. A plumber can check that all your valves (especially the main water shut-off) are in good working condition. This ensures you can quickly shut off water in an emergency, a crucial step in minimizing water damage if something goes wrong during the winter.

Don’t Wait for a Winter Emergency

Fall is a season of preparation. Taking the time now to schedule a plumbing inspection or maintenance visit can save you from big headaches down the line. Think of it as preventative care for one of your home’s most important systems.

Bailey Bros Plumbing & Drain can identify issues you might miss ... and help ensure your home stays safe, dry, and warm all winter long.

Need a fall plumbing checkup? Don’t wait until it’s too late!

Contact Bailey Bros Plumbing now to schedule a seasonal inspection and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.

443-787-5995 | baileybrosLLC@gmail.com