As fall settles in and the holiday season approaches, your home’s plumbing system faces increased demand from guests, cooking, and colder weather. A small issue now can turn into a major headache during festive gatherings. At Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc., we’re here to help you avoid plumbing disasters with five essential fall maintenance tips. By taking these steps, you’ll keep your home running smoothly and ensure a stress-free holiday season.
Inspect and Insulate Exposed Pipes
Cold snaps, even in milder climates, can cause pipes to freeze and burst, especially those in unheated areas like basements, garages, or exterior walls. Check exposed pipes for signs of wear or leaks, and insulate them with foam pipe sleeves to protect against temperatures dropping below 32°F. Insulation is a simple, cost-effective way to prevent costly repairs. If you’re unsure about your pipes’ condition, our licensed experts at Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc. can perform a thorough inspection to identify vulnerabilities.
Clear Drains and Traps
Holiday cooking and extra guests can put a strain on your drains, leading to clogs from grease, food scraps, or hair. Before the season ramps up, check sink and shower drains for slow drainage and clear minor blockages with a plunger or drain snake. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners, which can damage pipes. For stubborn clogs or to ensure your drains are holiday-ready, schedule a professional drain inspection with Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc. to keep water flowing smoothly.
Check Your Water Heater
With holiday guests taking more showers and dishwashers running frequently, your water heater needs to be in top shape. Set it to a safe, efficient temperature—around 120–140°F—and inspect for signs of leaks or rust. Flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup improves efficiency and extends its lifespan. If your water heater struggles to keep up, it may be time for maintenance or an upgrade. Our team at Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc. can assess your system and recommend solutions to meet holiday demands.
Test Your Sump Pump
In areas prone to heavy fall rains, a functioning sump pump is critical to prevent basement flooding. Test your sump pump by pouring water into the pit to ensure it activates and drains properly. Check the discharge line for blockages and verify the backup battery (if equipped) is operational. A professional inspection from Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc. can confirm your sump pump is ready for wet weather, protecting your home from water damage during the holidays.
Inspect Toilets and Faucets
Leaky faucets and running toilets can waste water and increase utility bills, especially during busy holiday gatherings. Check for drips, loose handles, or weak water flow, and replace worn washers or seals as needed. For toilets, add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and wait 10 minutes—if color appears in the bowl, you have a leak. Our licensed plumbers at Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc. can quickly resolve these issues, ensuring your plumbing is efficient and reliable.
Contact Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc. today to schedule your fall plumbing inspection. You can always trust The Guys in the Big Red Trucks!