As temperatures drop, many homeowners prepare their homes for winter by sealing drafts, servicing furnaces, and clearing gutters. But there’s a step that often gets overlooked, a plumbing inspection. Winter months can be hard on your plumbing system, and without proper preparation, small issues can turn into big, costly problems. Here’s why scheduling a plumbing inspection before winter hits is essential for your home!
1. Identify Potential Freezing Hazards
When water freezes inside pipes, it expands, putting pressure on the pipe walls often causing them to burst. This can lead to flooding, water damage, and expensive repairs. A professional inspection can identify potential issues, such as exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls. Addressing these vulnerable spots early can help prevent frozen pipes and protect your home from unexpected water damage.
2. Check for Leaks Before They Worsen
Minor leaks that may seem insignificant in warmer months can quickly become major issues in cold weather. Freezing temperatures can worsen leaks, as water around the leak freezes and expands. A pre-winter inspection will identify leaks in your pipes, faucets, or fixtures, providing ample time to repair them before they become serious (and costly) problems.
3. Ensure Your Water Heater Is Ready for Demand
During winter, your water heater works harder to provide hot water for showers, washing dishes, and doing laundry. The added strain can lead to problems if the water heater isn’t in top condition. A plumbing inspection can check your water heater’s efficiency and test components to ensure it’s ready for the colder months. Addressing any issues now will help you avoid being left without hot water on a freezing winter morning.
4. Test Sump Pumps and Drains
If you have a sump pump, winter is the perfect time to ensure it’s ready for any potential meltwater or flooding. A professional inspection can verify that your sump pump is working efficiently and that your drains are clear of obstructions. Testing your sump pumps and drains helps prepare for winter or early spring flooding impacting your home’s foundation or basement.
5. Inspect Outdoor Plumbing and Shut Off Valves
Any plumbing fixtures outside the home, such as hoses, faucets, or sprinkler systems, need to be winterized to prevent freezing. A plumbing inspection will cover these areas, ensuring all outdoor fixtures are drained and shut off properly. This is essential to avoid burst pipes that can lead to leaks inside your home.
6. Save on Heating and Water Bills
Leaks and inefficient appliances don’t just create plumbing headaches—they can also impact your utility bills. By addressing small plumbing issues before winter, you can save on both water and energy costs. For instance, an inefficient water heater can make energy bills soar in the winter, while dripping faucets or leaky pipes can lead to unexpectedly high water bills. A quick inspection can identify these issues and keep your bills in check.
Schedule Your Pre-Winter Plumbing Inspection Today!
Preparing your plumbing for winter is about more than just preventing a few drips or leaks—it’s about ensuring peace of mind and keeping your home safe. At Drain Experts Plumbing, we’re here to help you stay one step ahead of the cold. With a comprehensive inspection, our team will address potential winter plumbing hazards, so you can enjoy the season worry-free.
Contact us today for a free quote! We’re available 24/7 at 416-602-7886 or 647-7 EXPERT (739-7378). You can also reach us by email at info@drainexpertsplumbing.ca. Don’t wait until the cold settles in—let Drain Experts Plumbing help you get ready for winter!