The best way to stay on top of home maintenance is to schedule annual tasks seasonally. Following a fall plumbing checklist is one way to prevent frozen pipes this winter and the resulting property damage.

In November, temperatures in Nashville start to plummet. Average lows in November drop to 39 degrees Fahrenheit, and January sees drops into the 20s.

With summer behind us and the holiday season ahead, it’s an excellent opportunity for an overall annual plumbing inspection.

Outdoor Fall Plumbing Checklist

Let’s start with the outdoor items to check:

1. Put away garden hoses. Water in your garden hoses can freeze, and the expanding water can damage the hose and the hose bibb.

2. Insulate hose bibbs: Cover outdoor faucets with freeze caps to prevent damage.

3. Check for and repair any leaking outdoor faucets.

3. Check lawn and garden irrigation systems. Flush the system of water and make any adjustments to timers to accommodate plant dormancy.

Tip: It’s also a good time to check for end-of-season sales on replacement heads and other parts.

4. Clean out gutters. Keeping gutters and downspouts clear ensures water is channeled off your roof and away from your home. It can also help prevent ice buildup, preventing slipping accidents.

5. Perform any pool and spa winter shutdown procedures.

6. Check your water meter. Turn off all the water in your home and write down the meter reading. Leave your house empty for a few hours and check the meter reading upon your return. If the reading is different, then you may have hidden leaks in your home.

Indoor Fall Plumbing Checklist

These items can help ensure that your holidays aren’t derailed by a plumbing emergency.

1. Inspect your water heater. Double check your temperature setting and the pressure relief valve for safe operation. Have a professional flush your water heater to remove sediment.

2. Check pipe insulation. If pipes in unheated spaces are insulated, check them for damage and repair them. If they aren’t, fall is an excellent time to apply insulation wrap to save energy costs.

3. Service your sump pump. Nashville averages nearly 50 inches of rainfall a year. If you have sump pump in your basement, fall is a good time to clean it and make sure it’s working to spec.

4. Check fixtures for leaks. While you’re checking things off your list, perform an overall inspection of toilets and faucets for leaks. Even minor leaks can add up over time, but the good news is that most homeowners can fix them easily.

Checking it Twice

While it may not yet be cold enough to worry about a freeze, taking care of these preventative tasks in the fall means you won’t be caught by a surprise cold snap. Take care of your fall plumbing checklist before the holidays, so you won’t get sidetracked by more festive pursuits.

Make an appointment today with the pros at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Nashville for a professional inspection or repairs so you can face the cold weather with peace of mind.