Plumbing Checklist: Must-Do Tasks Before Winter Hits

As the leaves fall and temperatures start to dip, now’s the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for the colder months ahead. For homeowners, November is all about prevention. Tackling a few plumbing maintenance tasks now can save you from costly repairs and water issues during winter. Here’s an November plumbing checklist from Richter Plumbing to keep your home’s plumbing system in top shape before the holidays—and the cold weather—arrive.

1. Inspect and Insulate Your Outdoor Faucets and Pipes

Exposed pipes and outdoor faucets are vulnerable to freezing when temperatures drop. Freezing can lead to burst pipes, which can cause serious (and expensive) water damage. Disconnect any hoses, drain them, and store them inside for winter. Wrap exposed outdoor pipes with insulation sleeves or heat tape to keep them warm and protected.

Tip: Not sure if a pipe is vulnerable? Look for any pipes that run along exterior walls or are located in unheated spaces, like your garage or basement.

2. Service Your Water Heater

Your water heater has to work harder in colder weather, especially when everyone wants a hot shower on chilly mornings. To keep it running smoothly, flush the tank to remove sediment buildup that reduces efficiency. Set the water heater thermostat to about 120°F to balance comfort and energy savings.

Pro Tip: If your water heater is over 10 years old, it might be time to consider a replacement before winter hits. Newer models are more energy-efficient and reliable.

3. Clean Your Garbage Disposal

With holiday feasts and family gatherings around the corner, your garbage disposal is about to see some heavy action! Keep it in good shape by grinding ice cubes and a few lemon peels to clear out any buildup and odors. Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods, like potato peels or celery, down the disposal—these can clog the system.

Quick Fix: If your disposal clogs or smells, don’t pour chemical drain cleaners down the sink! Instead, call Richter Plumbing for a safe and effective solution.

4. Check for Hidden Leaks

A small leak might not seem like a big deal, but it can turn into a huge problem as temperatures drop. Go around your home and check under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement for any signs of moisture or dripping. If you find anything, don’t ignore it—Richter Plumbing can help repair leaks before they worsen.

DIY Tip: Watch your water meter. If it’s moving when no water is in use, you might have a hidden leak somewhere in your system.

5. Inspect Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters might not seem like a plumbing concern, but they play a crucial role in directing water away from your foundation. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool near your home, leading to foundation and basement issues. Clean out leaves and debris from gutters and ensure that downspouts direct water at least 3 feet away from your home.

Bonus Tip: If you’ve had issues with gutter clogs in the past, consider installing gutter guards to prevent buildup during the winter.

6. Test Your Sump Pump

If your home has a sump pump in the basement, now is the time to make sure it’s ready for any winter rain or melting snow. Test the sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to see if it activates. If it’s slow or doesn’t work at all, call Richter Plumbing to inspect it.

Did You Know? Sump pumps have a lifespan of about 10 years, so if yours is getting up there in age, it may be time to consider a replacement before winter storms.

7. Consider a Whole-Home Inspection

If you’re unsure where to start or want peace of mind before winter, consider scheduling a whole-home plumbing inspection with Richter Plumbing. Our expert plumbers can spot potential problems and address them early, from checking your water pressure to inspecting your water heater, pipes, and fixtures.

Why November? Getting an inspection now means you’re less likely to have plumbing issues in the middle of winter when repairs can be more challenging and urgent.

A little plumbing maintenance goes a long way in preventing winter problems and costly repairs. By tackling these simple November tasks, you can enjoy a safe, cozy home all winter long. For any questions or assistance with your plumbing needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to Richter Plumbing. We are here to help keep your home’s plumbing in perfect condition, season after season!