Essential Fall Plumbing Tips to Prepare Your Home for Winter
As autumn rolls in across West Michigan, many homeowners are busy with raking leaves, swapping wardrobes, and preparing their homes for the colder months ahead. But one important task often overlooked is getting your plumbing system ready for fall and winter.
Cold weather, fluctuating temperatures, and seasonal storms can all put added stress on your pipes, water heater, and drainage systems. Taking a few proactive steps in the fall can save you from costly repairs and emergencies when winter hits full force.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top plumbing tips you should take care of during fall — from protecting outdoor pipes to ensuring your sump pump is storm-ready.
Why Fall Plumbing Maintenance Matters
It’s easy to take your plumbing system for granted when everything is working fine. But seasonal changes can quickly expose weak spots:
Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and expensive) problems in winter. A single burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in water damage.
Water heaters often fail in colder months, when demand is highest. If your heater is already underperforming, cold weather could push it over the edge.
Heavy rains and melting snow can overwhelm sump pumps and drainage systems, leading to flooded basements.
Neglected outdoor fixtures like hose bibs, spigots, or sprinkler systems can crack or burst if not properly winterized.
A little preventative maintenance in the fall can help avoid these headaches and give you peace of mind through the winter.
1. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses and Faucets
Before the first frost, be sure to disconnect all garden hoses. Water left inside a hose or faucet can freeze, expand, and cause cracks in the pipes behind your walls. After removing the hose, drain the faucet completely.
Pro Tip: Add insulated faucet covers to your outdoor spigots. They’re inexpensive and provide an extra layer of protection against freezing temperatures.
If you have a sprinkler or irrigation system, schedule a fall blowout service. A professional will use compressed air to clear all water from the lines, preventing underground pipes from freezing and bursting.
2. Inspect and Flush Your Water Heater
With cooler weather, your family relies more heavily on hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing. This extra demand can strain your water heater.
Drain and flush the tank to remove sediment buildup. Sediment reduces efficiency and can cause your heater to work harder than necessary.
Check the temperature setting — it should be around 120°F for optimal efficiency and safety.
Inspect the anode rod. This part prevents corrosion inside the tank but wears down over time. If it’s heavily corroded, replace it.
If your water heater is more than 10–12 years old, start planning for a replacement. Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient unit before it fails can save you money and hassle in the long run.
3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
While gutters might not seem like part of your plumbing system, they play a critical role in keeping water away from your home. When gutters are clogged with leaves and debris, water overflows and pools near your foundation, increasing the risk of leaks and basement flooding.
This fall, clean your gutters and downspouts, and make sure they direct water at least 5–10 feet away from your home. Consider adding gutter guards to reduce future buildup.
4. Test Your Sump Pump
West Michigan weather can be unpredictable, with fall storms and snowmelt adding extra water around your foundation. Your sump pump is your first line of defense against a flooded basement.
To test your sump pump:
Pour a bucket of water into the pit.
Make sure the pump turns on, removes the water, and shuts off properly.
Check the discharge line to ensure water is being pumped away from your home.
If your pump is older than 7–10 years, consider replacing it before winter. For added peace of mind, you can also install a battery backup system to keep your pump running during power outages.
5. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes located in unheated areas — such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, or garages — are especially vulnerable to freezing. Insulating these pipes with foam pipe sleeves is a simple and inexpensive solution.
Pay special attention to pipes along exterior walls. Even inside your home, these pipes can freeze if the temperature drops low enough.
6. Check for Leaks and Drips
Small plumbing issues have a way of becoming big problems when temperatures drop. Take time in the fall to inspect your home for leaks, drips, or signs of water damage.
Check under sinks and around toilets for water stains or puddles.
Listen for running toilets or dripping faucets.
Inspect your basement for signs of moisture or mold.
Fixing minor issues now can prevent major headaches later.
7. Prepare for Holiday Guests
Fall also means the holiday season is right around the corner. With guests coming to visit, your plumbing system may be working overtime.
Ensure your garbage disposal is in good condition to handle extra cooking scraps.
Remind family members not to put grease, coffee grounds, or fibrous foods (like celery or potato peels) down the drain.
Consider having your drains professionally cleaned before hosting holiday gatherings.
8. Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
Even the most attentive homeowners can overlook hidden issues. Scheduling a professional plumbing inspection in the fall ensures your system is ready for winter.
A licensed plumber can:
Test water pressure and flow.
Inspect pipes for leaks or corrosion.
Check sump pump function and backup systems.
Evaluate water heater performance.
Make recommendations for repairs or upgrades before problems occur.
Regular inspections are the best way to extend the life of your plumbing system and avoid costly emergencies.
Taking care of your plumbing system in the fall isn’t just about avoiding emergencies — it’s about protecting your investment in your home and giving yourself peace of mind during the colder months. From disconnecting hoses to scheduling a professional inspection, these simple steps can make a big difference.
🍂 Don’t wait until the first freeze hits. Call Cherry Valley Plumbing & Electrical today to schedule your fall plumbing service. With over 25 years of experience serving Middleville, Hastings, and surrounding West Michigan communities, our licensed team is here to help you stay comfortable and stress-free this season.
📞 Visit www.cherryvalleype.com or call today to book your appointment.