
Here is a practical checklist to help ensure your plumbing system is ready for the upcoming Michigan winter.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses and Insulate Hose Bibs
Leaving garden hoses connected during freezing temperatures is one of the most common causes of burst pipes. Water trapped inside the hose can freeze and expand back into the spigot, causing interior supply lines to crack.
- Disconnect all hoses: Drain outdoor hoses completely and store them in a shed or garage for the winter.
- Shut off outdoor water valves: If your home has dedicated shut-off valves for exterior spigots, turn them off and drain any remaining water from the lines.
- Install hose bib covers: Place inexpensive foam insulation covers over outdoor faucets to protect them from cold winds.
Inspect and Service Your Water Heater
Your water heater works much harder during the autumn and winter months as incoming municipal or well water temperatures drop.
- Flush sediment buildup: Sediment naturally collects at the bottom of the tank over time, reducing efficiency and heating performance. Flushing the tank clears out debris.
- Check the temperature setting: Set your water heater to 120°F for optimal efficiency and safe, comfortable warmth without wasting energy.
- Inspect for minor leaks: Look around the base of the unit and pipe connections for early signs of corrosion or moisture.
Clear Out Outdoor Drains and Gutters
Fall leaves and debris don’t just clog up your roof line; they can severely disrupt your home’s drainage.
- Clean gutters and downspouts: Ensure rainwater and future snowmelt can drain freely away from your foundation.
- Check outdoor drain grates: Clear fallen leaves away from driveway, patio, and basement entryway drains to prevent water backup during heavy fall rainstorms.
Protect Exposed Pipes in Unheated Areas
Pipes running through crawl spaces, unheated basements, attics, or exterior walls are vulnerable to sudden freezes.
- Apply pipe insulation: Wrap exposed supply lines with simple foam pipe insulation sleeves to help trap heat.
- Seal rim joists and air leaks: Drafts near plumbing lines accelerate freezing; seal small gaps around pipes with caulk or spray foam.
Test Your Sump Pump Before Heavy Fall Rains
Fall in Michigan often brings steady rainfall before the winter snow arrives. You want to make sure your sump pump is ready to protect your basement or crawl space.
- Perform a test pour: Slowly pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to confirm the float switch activates and water pumps out properly.
- Clear the discharge line: Verify that the outdoor exit pipe is clear of leaves and draining away from your foundation.
Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
Getting your plumbing inspected before severe weather sets in eliminates guesswork and ensures your home stays protected.
If you want complete peace of mind heading into the season, contact Boelcke today to schedule your fall plumbing maintenance check.
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