(252) 355-9191
As seasons change, it is the perfect time to consider annual plumbing maintenance. Being proactive before the temperatures change can keep your home safe, protected, and accident-free all winter long. To prepare your home for the cooler months ahead, here are a few things you can do to keep your plumbing in top shape and performing well throughout fall and winter.
Caring for Your Pipes
In North Carolina, we get some low temperatures followed by rain or even snow. If your pipes are unprotected, they may freeze, causing burst pipes, water damage, and expensive repairs. Before temperatures really drop, check any exposed pipes in your basement, garage, or attic. Consider insulating those pipes so they stay warm year-round. Insulation helps prevent pipes from freezing or cracking, and it also conserves energy by keeping water warm as it moves through your pipes.
Water Heater Maintenance
You use your water heater constantly, every day, to provide hot water for showers, baths, laundry, and washing dishes. To keep your water heater working year-round, we recommend yearly maintenance. Consider draining and flushing your water heater yearly to remove buildup and sediment. Then, inspect the water heater for any leaks, cracks, or rust. Finally, set the water thermostat to around 120°F for optimal use. We know how important it is to have hot water all the time, but especially in the fall and winter – so if you need water heater maintenance, Advance Mechanical is here to help.
Check for Leaks
No matter the size, a water leak can cause significant damage if left untreated. Plus, if your pipes already have a small crack or leak, they’re more likely to freeze in the winter. Take time to check under your sinks, around the toilets, and by your water heater for any water damage or signs of leaks. Make sure you check for any mold or mildew that could indicate moisture. Find and seal any gaps or areas where cool air could enter your home. This will protect your plumbing system and may help reduce your utility bills, too!
Winterize Outdoor Plumbing
Before it gets really cold, disconnect any garden hoses, turn off exterior water valves, and, if you use sprinklers, drain them as soon as possible. This prevents trapped water from freezing, cracking your pipes, and causing further damage. You should also take a quick look at your gutters to make sure they can properly drain water away from your home.
Sump Pump Test
Hurricane season lasts until November 30, which means more rain, storms, and wind are still possible. This is a great time to inspect and test your sump pump to make sure it will work as needed over the next few months. Pour water into the sump pump to make sure it turns on and drains, check the discharge pipe for blockages, and clean the pump to remove debris or clogs. Your sump pump plays a key role in pumping water away from your home and preventing or reducing flooding. Maintenance and regular repairs help keep your plumbing system working properly so you and your home stay protected.
Schedule a Service
The best way to keep your plumbing in good shape for years to come is to have Advance Mechanical inspect and maintain it. With a professional plumbing inspection, we can identify any issues that might not be noticeable to the untrained eye. We can also provide the necessary maintenance your plumbing needs to continue functioning properly. Proper preventative maintenance means addressing small problems before they grow and cause damage that may require expensive repairs.
Advance Mechanical is proud to provide plumbing services like drain cleaning, water heater repair and replacement, leak detection, and emergency plumbing to eastern North Carolina. We know how important a functioning plumbing system is, so we handle tough jobs with professionalism and experience, using modern technology to get the job done right. When it comes to plumbing services you can trust, Advance Mechanical is the choice you can depend on. Contact us today to schedule your service – 252-355-9191.