As the long days of summer wind down, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. By catching small plumbing issues now, you can prevent costly and inconvenient problems later. If you’re not sure where to start—or if you spot something that needs professional attention—our expert team is here to help. And if you ever need a skilled plumber in Cedar Grove, NJ, you know who to call!
Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
Start with your home’s exterior. Check all outdoor spigots and hose bibs for leaks or drips. Even minor leaks can worsen during freezing temperatures, potentially leading to pipe bursts. Disconnect and drain garden hoses before storing them to prevent trapped water from freezing. If you notice persistent leaks or cracks in the faucet assembly, it’s time to have a plumber take a closer look.
Test Your Sump Pump
If you have a basement sump pump, test it by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and watching to see if it kicks on and drains properly. This small step can help you avoid flooding issues during heavy fall rains or early snowmelts. If your pump doesn’t respond, makes unusual noises, or runs constantly, a professional inspection is in order.
Check Toilets and Faucets for Silent Leaks
A toilet that runs occasionally—or constantly—could be wasting hundreds of gallons of water a month. The same goes for dripping faucets. Check toilets by adding a few drops of food coloring to the tank; if the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak. This means it’s time to call in a pro.
Clean and Inspect Drains
End-of-summer barbecues and gatherings can lead to extra grease, food debris, and soap scum going down your drains. Run hot water through kitchen and bathroom sinks, and use a safe, enzyme-based cleaner to help keep pipes clear. If you notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or recurring clogs, don’t rely on chemical drain cleaners—those can damage your plumbing. A plumber can clear the line safely and thoroughly.
Examine Exposed Pipes
Take a look at any exposed pipes in your basement, crawlspace, or garage. Check for signs of corrosion, mineral buildup, or damp spots that may indicate a slow leak. This is also a good time to add insulation to pipes in unheated areas to protect against winter freezing. If you do spot any problems, we can help you sort them out right away.
Schedule a Water Heater Flush
Over time, sediment builds up inside your water heater, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. Flushing your water heater at the end of summer helps prepare it for the increased use that often comes with colder weather. If you hear rumbling noises or see rusty water, you may need professional service.
By running through this simple checklist now, you can ensure your home’s plumbing is in great shape before the cold weather sets in. And remember—if anything on this list raises concerns you can’t tackle yourself, our experienced team is ready to help you make sure your home is ready for a worry-free winter!
Contact MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc. today to schedule an appointment or with any questions for a plumber in Cedar Grove, NJ!