The window between the last 100-degree day and the first freeze in the Big Country is your opportunity to prepare your plumbing for winter. In Abilene, that window is typically late September through mid-November. Taking these steps now prevents the frozen pipes, burst supply lines, and water heater failures that fill plumbers' schedules from December through February.
Service Your Water Heater
Service your water heater before winter. Your water heater works hardest during cold months when incoming water from the supply line is at its coldest and your household demands the most hot water. Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup, test the T&P valve, and check the anode rod. If your water heater is over 8 years old, have a professional assess its condition before it faces winter demand. Replacing a failing unit in October is far better than an emergency replacement on Christmas morning.
Insulate Pipes and Outdoor Faucets
Insulate exposed pipes and outdoor faucets. Purchase foam pipe insulation for any exposed supply lines in your attic, garage, crawl space, or along exterior walls. Install frost-free hose bib covers on all outdoor faucets. These inexpensive foam covers provide significant protection during overnight freezes and cost just a few dollars each at any hardware store.
Locate and Test Your Shut-Off Valve
Locate and test your main water shut-off valve. If a pipe bursts during a freeze, every second counts. You need to be able to shut off the water immediately to limit damage. Find your shut-off valve now, verify it turns freely, and make sure every adult in the household knows where it is and how to operate it. If the valve is seized or difficult to turn, have it replaced before winter.
Clean Gutters to Protect Your Foundation
Clean your gutters and make sure downspouts direct water away from your foundation. While this seems like an exterior maintenance task rather than a plumbing issue, clogged gutters cause water to pool around your foundation. In Abilene's clay soil, this water causes the soil to expand, putting pressure on your foundation and underground plumbing. Proper drainage protects both your foundation and your sewer lines.
Address Septic Maintenance Before Winter
If you have a septic system, have the tank inspected and pumped if it is due. Winter is the worst time for a septic failure because saturated soil does not absorb effluent well and repair work in cold, wet conditions is more difficult and expensive. Getting ahead of septic maintenance in fall saves headaches when temperatures drop.
Inspect Gas Lines and Connections
Inspect your gas lines and connections if you have a gas furnace, gas water heater, or gas fireplace. These appliances see increased use in winter, and a gas leak during heavy use creates a serious safety hazard. Check for the smell of rotten eggs around gas appliances and listen for hissing sounds at connections. If you suspect a gas leak at any time, evacuate and call 911 first, then call a licensed plumber.
Total Quality Plumbing provides fall maintenance services for homeowners throughout Abilene, Clyde, Merkel, Tuscola, Potosi, Tye, Buffalo Gap, Sweetwater, Baird, and all Big Country communities. Call (325) 266-4887 to schedule your fall plumbing checkup before the first freeze arrives.