All parts of your plumbing system—from the pipes to the drains—can be negatively affected by cold weather. While a plumber can help if anything goes wrong, it's better to prevent emergencies with preventative maintenance. This guide provides helpful autumn plumbing tips. 

How to Prepare Your Household Plumbing for Winter

1. Store Your Hoses

Low nighttime temperatures are common during the fall. Once you're finished with gardening or watering your lawn for the year, put your hoses away to prevent damage from freezing water. Disconnect your hoses and drain them thoroughly. Then, coil the hoses and store them in a dry place, such as a garage or a shed, until springtime. 

2. Check Outdoor Faucets

After you've disconnected the hoses, check your outdoor faucets for signs of leaks or damage. These issues can get worse in winter if icy weather freezes your pipes. If you spot leaks, get them repaired by a plumber as soon as possible. Prevent further weather-related issues by covering faucets with an insulation kit. 

3. Prepare Your Water Heater 

No one wants to discover that the hot water has run out while showering in the winter. Therefore, make sure to get your water heater's tank flushed. This process removes built-up sediment that can decrease the efficiency of your appliance. Alternatively, if you're interested in replacing your water heater with a more efficient unit, speak with a plumber to make sure you have the correct size for your household. 

4. Insulate Your Pipes

Frozen pipes can cause severe damage since the expansion of the ice might exacerbate pre-existing cracks or lead to bursting. As a result, many homeowners have to deal with water damage to their building materials and mold and mildew growth in winter. To avoid flooding, insulate your pipes before winter hits. Pay special attention to those in crawl spaces or your garage since these are often exposed to the cold. 

If you need help with fall plumbing tasks, contact Wild West Plumbing, Heating & Drain Service. This Flathead Valley, MT, plumber knows what it takes to protect household pipes from extreme winter temperatures. They can also assist with any heating and cooling needs to make sure your home is fully prepared for all weather conditions. Learn more about their services online, or schedule an appointment at (406) 752-1244.