Today's blog is the second in a two-part series on a winter checklist for your home's plumbing. We'll provide you with insight into the following:
- Preparing your home's sump pump for winter
- Talk about the importance of keeping your home warm and the steps you can take
- Discuss ways to prevent water heater issues
- Checking your home's water main valve
Check Sump Pump Functionality to Avoid Basement Flooding
It's crucial to ensure your sump pump is operating properly to avoid basement flooding. Regular maintenance and testing can help you identify any issues and address them before heavy rainfall or snowmelt occurs.
- Here are the steps to test your pump:
- Clean out debris that may have accumulated in the pit.
- Pour water into the pit until the float switch activates, then turn on the pump.
- Check that the float switch moves freely.
Observe if it pumps water properly and listen for unusual noises or vibrations.
If you notice any problems during maintenance and testing, contact a professional plumber specializing in sump pump repair. They can diagnose issues such as clogged discharge pipes, malfunctioning switches, or worn-out parts needing repair or replacement.
Prevent Water Heater Issues in Cold Weather
Preventing water heater issues during cold weather is crucial to ensure a consistent and efficient hot water supply in your home. These plumbing tips for maintaining your home's water can help mitigate potential problems and keep your water heater running smoothly throughout the colder months.
An important step is to adjust your water heater's temperature to 120° Fahrenheit (F) for efficiency. If it's set too high, energy consumption can spike and cause the water heater to run more frequently to maintain a temperature above 120°F. That adjustment can prevent scalding accidents too, especially if you have young children or elderly individuals.
Another essential maintenance task is flushing the water heater tank before winter. Over time, sediment and mineral buildup can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, affecting its performance and efficiency. Flushing the tank removes this sediment, allowing for better heat transfer and preventing potential damage to the heating element.
It is also advisable to schedule a professional inspection of your water heater system before winter. A qualified technician can identify any existing issues or potential problems that may arise during colder temperatures. They can check for leaks, inspect valves and connections, and ensure all components function correctly.
These preventive measures will minimize the risk of unexpected breakdowns or inefficiencies with your water heater during cold weather. Regular maintenance and professional inspections play a vital role in extending the lifespan of your system while ensuring a reliable hot water supply when you need it most.
Keep Your House Warm This Winter Season
Maintaining a consistent temperature in your home is also beneficial if you have an indoor water heater. The Department of Energy recommends keeping your home's thermostat at 60° to 68°F throughout the year.
Check Your Home's Water Main Valve
Despite all your preparations, it's impossible to eliminate the risk of plumbing issues during the winter season. Emergencies can happen unexpectedly, so it's strongly advised for homeowners to inspect and test their main shut-off valve regularly.
That valve must be in proper working order and easily accessible in the unfortunate instance that a pipe bursts in your home; shutting off the water supply can significantly reduce potential damage to your property.
Your final step is to call the Clements Plumbing, Heating, & Air team at 417-682-3797 to schedule a time for them to come out and assess the damage in your home.
