As we get closer to the end of the fall – the temperatures continue to drop and the winter makes its presence known.
The fall is a beautiful time of year here in our small town but, it is also a time of year when we are reminded that the cold weather is just around the corner.
While the winter here is just an average of 36 degrees at the coldest part of the winter – that is cold enough to be thinking about how to protect your home and your family from any major disasters.
More specifically, any major plumbing disasters. When the cold weather arrives, your plumbing system takes a major beating.
In fact, your plumbing system takes more abuse from the cold weather than any other time of the year. This is the time of year when a small plumbing issue will escalate to something major – and probably expensive.
Use these tips to ensure that your plumbing system is protected and that any small issues are addressed before they escalate:
- Whether you are on a septic system or connected to the municipal sewer line – this is the time of year to have your system professionally inspected. Having a professional plumber come out and take a look at your system is the best and most inexpensive way to ensure that there aren’t any major issues with the plumbing that could lead to a leak if left unrepaired.
- Check your water heater for any signs of damage. Make sure to do this at least once per month so that you are aware of any issues as soon as they occur. Most water heaters are designed to last for at least five years and maybe a few years after. You want to keep an eye on the tank and mechanism to ensure that any damage gets repaired right away.
The best way to avoid a major plumbing disaster is to catch it when it is small and still relatively easy to fix. Just like keeping your car properly maintained is best for fuel efficiency, keeping your plumbing system properly maintained is best for energy-efficiency.