As winter approaches, homeowners often focus on preparing their living spaces for the cold months ahead. However, certain plumbing tasks tend to get overlooked, which can lead to costly damages. By addressing these essential plumbing tasks, homeowners can save money and ensure their plumbing systems function efficiently throughout the winter season.
1. Check Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs for Hidden Leaks
One often-forgotten plumbing task is checking outdoor faucets and hose bibs for hidden leaks. Leaks can lead to wasted water and increased utility bills, as the typical home loses around 10,000 gallons of water annually due to leaks. By inspecting outdoor plumbing fixtures, homeowners can prevent freeze-related damage and unsightly water wastage.
Homeowners should first turn on the outdoor faucets to check for any visible leaks or drips. If water continues to flow even after the faucet is turned off, it’s a sign that maintenance is needed. Additionally, examining the connections and hoses for any signs of wear can help in identifying potential issues before winter sets in.
Sealing any visible leaks promptly can make a significant difference in water conservation. Homeowners can also consider winterizing their outdoor faucets by draining them completely to prevent freezing. By taking these simple steps, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind knowing their plumbing system is in good shape for the colder months.
2. Inspect and Flush Your Water Heater for Better Winter Performance
Another crucial plumbing task is to inspect and flush your water heater to ensure optimal performance during the winter season. This process helps to remove sediment build-up that can hinder efficiency and overall water quality. According to Jobber, residential water leaks can waste 3,000 gallons of water every year, making maintenance even more critical.
Flushing the water heater at least once a year allows homeowners to enjoy better heat efficiency and extends the lifespan of the unit. This simple task typically involves turning off the heater, connecting a garden hose to the drain valve, and allowing water to flow out until it runs clear. Doing this ensures that homeowners won’t face unexpected cold showers when they need hot water the most during winter.
In addition, examining the temperature setting on the water heater can save energy and reduce costs. A safe setting usually falls between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which is both energy-efficient and effective. By keeping their water heaters well-maintained, homeowners can improve comfort levels throughout their home regardless of the weather outside.
3. Test Sump Pumps and Floor Drains Before Snow Begins to Melt
As winter approaches, it’s essential to ensure that sump pumps and floor drains are functioning correctly. Snowmelt can lead to excess water, and proper drainage is critical to avoid flooding in basements and crawl spaces. In fact, according to Jobber, there were 132,000 plumbing businesses in the U.S. as of 2024, highlighting the importance of well-maintained plumbing systems.
To test sump pumps, homeowners can pour water into the sump pit to see if the pump activates and successfully drains water away. Similarly, checking floor drains for blockages can prevent water build-up when melting snow occurs. Regularly cleaning these drains can help keep water flowing and protect the home from potential water damage.
Additionally, homeowners should familiarize themselves with the electrical connections and battery backup systems for their sump pumps. Having a backup system in place guarantees that the pump will operate during power outages, which might happen during winter storms. By ensuring these systems are in good condition, homeowners can prevent water infiltration and damage, creating a dry and safe environment indoors.
In conclusion, addressing these overlooked plumbing tasks can greatly benefit homeowners as winter approaches. Checking outdoor faucets, flushing the water heater, and testing sump pumps are crucial actions that promote water conservation and prevent damage. By taking these steps, homeowners can ensure a well-functioning plumbing system and enjoy a warm, worry-free winter.
