![Fall is here and it is time to start thinking about taking care of your plumbing before heading into the winter months. Many of us are still drying out from our recent rains, but it is never too early to prepare your plumbing for the changing seasons. 1. Store your garden hoses before temperatures drop […]](https://www.greenapplemechanical.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/plumbing_orig-750x420.jpg "These Are Your Top 5 Fall Plumbing Musts")
Fall is here and it is time to start thinking about taking care of your plumbing before heading into the winter months. Many of us are still drying out from our recent rains, but it is never too early to prepare your plumbing for the changing seasons.
1. Store your garden hoses before temperatures drop
As temperatures drop, you’ll want to make sure your hoses make it through the colder weather. Start by disconnecting each hose and draining it, ensuring any leftover water has been removed. If any water is left inside the hose when it gets really cold, it will freeze and can potentially break it.
2. Cover your outdoor faucets with Styrofoam
To protect your outdoor faucets from freezing temperatures, invest in a very affordable foam faucet cover. It looks like half an igloo and basically acts as an insulation to keep the outside cold out. Save your faucets from freezing with this very simple and quick solution.
3. If you’re away for an extended period, shut off valves
If you’re not home for an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to shut off water valves as temperatures begin to drop. Some water meters are located inside, while some are located outside. Look for a round, wheel-type handle and turn it all the way to the right, clockwise. To check whether it’s shut off, test each faucet by turning it on to its highest level. The water should eventually drain and no longer flow.
4. Clear out your home’s gutters
If you have a ladder handy, carefully use it to inspect the gutters around the exterior of your home. Clear out any leaves or debris that could block water from flowing and draining.
5. Check your water heater settings
During the colder months, your water heater has to work harder to deliver warm water when you need it. As temperatures drop, make sure your water heater is set to 120 degrees to ensure it’s prepared to perform at its best.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding any of your plumbing or HVAC needs call Green Apple toll-free at 888-611-7191
