Fall Maintenance Is Not Just for Up North
When people think of fall plumbing maintenance, they usually think of freezing pipes and winterizing sprinkler systems. Here in Bradenton, our winters are mild, but that does not mean your plumbing gets a free pass. Fall is actually the ideal time to address a few seasonal items — especially since hurricane season does not officially end until November 30th, and our busiest season for houseguests is just around the corner.
Your Fall Plumbing Checklist
Start with your water heater. Fall is the perfect time to flush it and clear out the sediment that has accumulated over the year. In Manatee County, with our hard water, a year's worth of sediment can be significant. A flush takes about 20 minutes and helps your water heater run more efficiently — which matters as you start using more hot water when guests arrive for the holidays.
- Flush your water heater to remove sediment buildup
- Test the water heater temperature and pressure relief valve
- Check all outdoor faucets for drips or leaks
- Inspect hose bibs and disconnect garden hoses
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water pooling near the foundation
- Test your main water shutoff valve
- Check under sinks for slow leaks or moisture
Related: Water heater services in Bradenton, five signs your water heater needs attention
Preparing for Holiday Guests
If you are expecting houseguests for Thanksgiving or Christmas, your plumbing is about to get a workout. Now is the time to fix that slow drain, replace the leaky faucet, or address the toilet that runs intermittently. These small issues become big problems when your home is at full capacity. Make sure your garbage disposal is in good working order too — it is about to handle a lot more than usual.
Check your guest bathroom fixtures. Run water in sinks and showers that do not get used daily to make sure the drain traps are full and working. A dry trap in a guest bathroom means sewer gas odor — not the welcome you want for visitors.
Related: Drain cleaning services, holiday plumbing tips to avoid disasters
Schedule Your Fall Inspection
A professional fall plumbing inspection gives you peace of mind heading into the holiday season and the cooler months. At Rosco Plumbing, we check your entire system, identify potential trouble spots, and take care of minor issues before they become emergencies. Call us at (941) 345-2464 to schedule your fall checkup.
Related: Plumbing maintenance plans
Do not overlook fall plumbing maintenance just because we live in Florida. A water heater flush, a shutoff valve test, and a few quick checks can make all the difference heading into the holiday season. Rosco Plumbing is here to help — call us before the holiday rush.