Whether you own your home or rent a commercial space, learning about and performing proper plumbing maintenance can really save you time and costs in the long run. If you own your home, regular maintenance can extend the life of your plumbing system. Keeping your plumbing working is also in your best interest, as certain plumbing issues can shut down the productivity of a business or cause damage to personal property.
When the days are still dry, it’s a great time to start winterizing your property.
Storm Drain Inspection Time
Walk around your yard, driveways, and parking areas. Don’t forget to clean those gutters and downspouts. Inspect and clear any grates and storm drains of debris. Check the function of your stormwater pump (if you have one) for potential clogs, and make sure the outlet location is clear and free-flowing.
Keep It Clean
Be vigilant with raking fallen leaves, sweeping up needles, and pressure washing driveways. Raking leaves into a grate or ditch is an invitation for a clogged storm drain. Mulch, compost, or take yard debris to a recycling center. Pressure-washing sediments often contain oils and other chemical residues from vehicles — bag and dispose of properly. Stormwater runs right into local creeks, lakes, and the Sound without filtration.
Wrap It Up
Insulating exposed pipes can prevent leaks and unexpected pipe bursts during freezing weather. Check your garage, crawl space, and yard hydrants for exposed water lines. Examine for signs of leaks before wrapping. Use foam pipe insulation or foil-backed fiberglass strips, taped to secure joints. Check periodically for pests that nest in insulation.
Keep an Eye on It (Remotely)
If you have a vacation home or a basement that doesn’t see much use, consider a water leak detection system. Options range from basic audible alarms to Wi-Fi systems with automatic shut-off of the main water supply. Some home insurance companies offer discounts for installing one.
Faucet, Hose Bibb, Spigot, or Hydrant?
Whatever you call them, all exterior-facing water valves need to be prepared for winter. Detach and drain all garden hoses; store hoses in a dry place. If you have an isolation valve on the supply line, close the valve and open the spigot to drain remaining water. If you aren’t sure if your hose bibb is frost-free, add a foam faucet cover. For irrigation, call an irrigation specialist for proper winterization.
Flush and Run
Regularly flush toilets and run faucets to keep seals and gaskets hydrated and ensure drains have proper water levels. Drain traps can dehydrate, allowing sewer gas back into the home. Running fixtures about once a week keeps everything in working order.
No matter the time of year, keeping up on home maintenance can alert you to longstanding or developing issues. Stollwerck Plumbing & Sewer is ready to help with your plumbing maintenance needs.