When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, most homeowners turn their attention to cozying up indoors. But fall isn’t just about sweaters and football—it’s also the best time to prepare your home’s plumbing system for the colder months ahead.
At MB HAYNES, we’ve seen firsthand how a little preventative plumbing care in the fall can save homeowners from major headaches like frozen pipes, water damage, and costly repairs. With over 100 years of service to Western North Carolina and the Upstate, our team knows exactly what your home needs to stay safe and efficient.
Here’s your all-in-one fall plumbing checklist to keep your system in top shape before winter arrives.
Why Fall Plumbing Maintenance Matters
As temperatures drop, plumbing issues become more common—and more expensive to fix. Proactive fall maintenance can:
- Prevent frozen or burst pipes
- Reduce the risk of leaks and water damage
- Protect outdoor plumbing and irrigation systems
- Ensure reliable hot water during colder months
- Improve efficiency and extend the life of your fixtures
- Insulate Pipes in Vulnerable Areas
Pipes in unheated areas such as basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces are especially at risk for freezing when temperatures plummet.
Installing foam insulation sleeves or wrapping pipes with heat tape is an inexpensive way to prevent costly damage later.
- Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
One of the most common (and preventable) causes of burst pipes is leaving hoses attached to outdoor faucets in freezing weather.
- Disconnect garden hoses before the first freeze
- Drain water from each hose before storing
- Shut off outdoor spigots and drain them if possible
This simple step protects both your hoses and your home’s plumbing system.
- Inspect and Service Your Water Heater
Fall is the perfect time to make sure your water heater is ready for the extra workload ahead. Nobody wants an icy shower in January.
- Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup
- Check for leaks or signs of rust
- Test the pressure relief valve
- Set the thermostat to 120°F for safety and efficiency
If your water heater is more than 10–12 years old, it may be time to start considering a replacement.
- Check for Leaks Around the Home
Even small leaks can waste water, drive up utility bills, and cause structural damage over time.
Walk through your home and check:
- Faucets and under-sink pipes
- Toilets for silent leaks (add food coloring to the tank—if it shows up in the bowl, you’ve got a leak)
- Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators
Catching leaks early can prevent expensive repairs later.
- Test Sump Pumps and Drains
If your home has a basement, fall is the time to test your sump pump. Heavy rains and snowmelt can put your system to the test in the coming months.
- Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to confirm the pump activates
- Inspect the discharge line for clogs or freezing risks
- Make sure your floor drains are clear of debris
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Your gutters and downspouts are a critical part of your plumbing system, even though they’re outside the house.
Leaves, twigs, and debris can clog the system, causing water to overflow and pool near your foundation. This increases the risk of basement leaks and foundation damage.
Make sure water is flowing freely and away from your home.
- Prepare Outdoor Irrigation Systems
If you have sprinklers or irrigation lines, they’ll need to be winterized before freezing weather arrives.
- Shut off the water supply to outdoor irrigation
- Drain or blow out the lines
- Store any removable parts indoors
This protects your system from cracked pipes and costly springtime repairs.
- Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
Fall is an excellent time to have a licensed plumber take a closer look at your system. At MB HAYNES, our plumbing professionals can:
- Inspect water heaters, fixtures, and shut-off valves
- Test water pressure and look for hidden leaks
- Ensure your system is ready for the demands of winter
An annual inspection offers peace of mind and helps you avoid surprises when you need your plumbing most.
Partner with MB HAYNES for Plumbing Peace of Mind
For over a century, MB HAYNES has been the trusted name for services in Western North Carolina and the Upstate. As a 100% employee-owned company, we are dedicated to treating your home as if it were our own.
From preventative maintenance to emergency repairs, our certified plumbers are here to keep your home running smoothly all year long.
Ready to Protect Your Plumbing This Fall?
Don’t wait until the first freeze to find out your pipes or water heater aren’t prepared. Schedule your fall plumbing maintenance with MB HAYNES today and keep your home safe, efficient, and worry-free all winter.
Call us now or schedule your appointment online to get started. 828-254-6141