As the leaves change in Ohio and Indiana, your home’s plumbing system needs extra attention to prepare for colder weather. Bassett Services is proud to serve homeowners across Indiana and Ohio with trusted plumbing, HVAC, and electrical solutions, and our licensed plumbers know that a little preventive care in the fall can prevent major winter emergencies. Use this checklist to keep your plumbing running smoothly all season long.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
When temperatures drop, unprotected pipes in basements, garages, or crawlspaces are vulnerable to freezing and bursting. Fall is the time to:
- Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation sleeves
- Seal gaps around exterior walls where cold air seeps in
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and spigots
Taking these steps now helps avoid costly water damage later.
Service Your Water Heater
Hot water demand increases during colder months. To ensure your water heater is ready:
- Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup
- Check for rust or leaks around connections
- Test the pressure relief valve
- Consider upgrading to a tankless or energy-efficient model if your unit is over 10 years old
A tuned-up water heater saves energy and ensures reliable hot water all winter.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can back water up against your home, causing foundation leaks and basement flooding. Before fall rains arrive:
- Remove leaves and debris from gutters
- Check downspouts for blockages
- Extend downspouts at least 5 feet away from the foundation
Proper drainage protects your plumbing and prevents excess water pressure in sewer lines.
Test Sump Pump Function
If your home has a basement, your sump pump is the first line of defense against flooding. Test it by:
- Pouring a bucket of water into the pit to ensure the pump activates
- Checking the discharge line for clogs
- Inspecting the backup power source if you have one
Don’t wait until a fall rainstorm to find out your sump pump isn’t working.
Inspect Fixtures and Drains
Fall is the perfect time to walk through your home and check every sink, tub, toilet, and appliance:
- Look for slow drains or gurgling sounds
- Check under sinks for dampness or leaks
- Test toilets for phantom flushes or constant running
- Inspect laundry hoses for cracks or bulges
Addressing small issues now helps avoid emergencies during the holidays.
Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning
Fall leaves and seasonal debris can overload sewer systems. Scheduling a professional drain cleaning or hydro jetting service clears buildup before it causes backups. This is especially important before holiday gatherings when your plumbing system works overtime.
Prepare for Holiday Hosting
With extra guests using bathrooms, sinks, and dishwashers, fall is the time to make sure your plumbing is ready. A quick professional inspection can:
- Verify water pressure is adequate
- Ensure toilets and fixtures are functioning properly
- Confirm your water heater can handle the load
Why Choose Bassett Services for Fall Plumbing Care?
Bassett has been serving Indiana and Ohio families for over 40 years. Our plumbers provide:
- Same-day service for urgent repairs
- Upfront pricing so you know the cost before work begins
- Trusted expertise in leak detection, drain cleaning, and water heater service
- Satisfaction guarantee that gives you peace of mind
Schedule Plumbing Service This Fall
Don’t wait for freezing temperatures or holiday stress to expose plumbing problems. Call Bassett Services today to schedule your fall plumbing maintenance.
For more than four decades, families across Indiana and Ohio have trusted Bassett for reliable home service. Book your appointment now and head into winter with confidence.
