Prevent winter plumbing problems with this easy guide from West Coast Plumbing.
Fall is the perfect time to give your home’s plumbing a little attention before winter rains and chilly nights arrive. A few simple steps now can prevent costly emergencies later.
Below is a quick, practical checklist from your local plumbing experts at West Coast Plumbing to help you prepare.
Disconnect garden hoses from spigots to prevent water from freezing in the line.
Check outdoor faucets for leaks or drips; even small leaks can worsen when temperatures drop.
If your home has a shut-off valve for exterior faucets, close it and drain the line.
Local Tip: In Sonoma County’s microclimates, even mild nights can dip below freezing in valleys and hillsides. Frozen hose bibs are a top cause of burst pipes.
If your home has a sump pump (especially in low-lying or flood-prone areas), clean the pit and test the pump before the rainy season.
Pour a bucket of water into the pit to ensure it activates and drains properly.
Flush sediment from your tank water heater to improve efficiency and extend its life.
Check the temperature setting; 120°F is ideal for comfort and energy savings.
If your water heater is over 8–10 years old, schedule an inspection to avoid a mid-winter breakdown.
North Bay Pro Tip: In Sonoma, Napa, and Marin counties, chilly nights and heavy rains can hit even when the daytime is warm. Insulating exposed pipes and scheduling a seasonal plumbing checkup before the first big storm is the best way to prevent frozen pipes and sewer backups
Look under sinks, behind toilets, and around water-using appliances for dampness or corrosion.
Pay special attention to pipes running along exterior walls; insulate them if necessary to prevent freezing.
Ensure your main water shut-off valve works and is accessible.
Knowing how to quickly shut off water can minimize damage if a pipe bursts during a storm or cold snap.
Fall often means guests and heavier kitchen use. Schedule a professional drain cleaning before the holidays to avoid inconvenient clogs.
Avoid putting fats, oils, or fibrous foods (pumpkin pulp, potato peels) down your disposal.
A fall plumbing inspection can catch small issues before they turn into major headaches.
At West Coast Plumbing, we offer comprehensive seasonal checkups for Sonoma County homeowners — from checking water pressure to inspecting sewer lines with a camera.
Schedule your Fall Plumbing Checkup today and enjoy a worry-free winter.
Let the local experts handle it. West Coast Plumbing has been serving Sonoma County homes and businesses with fast, friendly, and reliable service for years. Schedule your Fall Plumbing Checkup today and enjoy a worry-free winter.
Let the local experts handle it. West Coast Plumbing has been serving Sonoma & Marin County homes and businesses with fast, friendly, and reliable service for years. Schedule your Fall Plumbing Checkup today and enjoy a worry-free winter.
