Plumbing problems are a nuisance anytime, but during winter they are probably the most dangerous.  Frozen pipes, no hot water, and sewer line problems, to name a few, are preventable with some easy home checks each year in the fall. 

1. Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots and turn water off. This sounds like a no-brainer, but surprisingly many people neglect doing so. This simple step prevents freezing of water inside the pipes that can result in pipes bursting. Burst pipes require costly repairs that include ripping open walls and floors.

2. If your home has an irrigation system, such as an outdoor sprinkler, be sure to winterize it or call a company to do so. Otherwise, the pipes will freeze and burst if there is water left in them. Again, the repair of burst pipes, even outside, can require digging up the yard and replacing the entire system.

3. For homes with a basement, be sure to clear leaves from window wells and outdoor basement stairway drains to ensure water does not collect on top of the debris. A pool of standing water in those areas may leak into windows or doors causing an undesired mess.

4. Preventive Maintenance (offered by Master Trade) is important to check sump pumps and water heaters. A happy sump pump keeps water flowing out of and away from the house. Additionally, winter is the worst time for an interruption of hot water. Make sure both are properly serviced before the cold months arrive.

5. Video inspection of sewer lines is a good idea in any season. It should be done regularly as part of a preventive maintenance routine. However, before winter, roots grow more aggressively. If you haven’t looked inside your sewer pipes in a while, or you’ve never done so, call Master Trade. We are properly equipped and experienced in video inspections and the next steps that may be necessary to keep your pipes clear all winter and beyond.

Call Master Trade to set up an appointment for a Preventive Maintenance check and/or Sewer Line Inspection before next winter. Complete these important to-do-list items during the warmer months to ensure you stay cozy when the cold arrives.