Why Fall is the Best Time for Preventative Plumbing Maintenance in Oklahoma
Oklahoma weather can be unpredictable – warm days in October can quickly give way to freezing nights in November. That’s why fall is the perfect time to take care of essential plumbing maintenance before winter hits. By tackling a few simple tasks now, you can prevent frozen pipes, avoid costly emergency repairs, and ensure your plumbing system is ready for the colder months.
Here’s a step-by-step plumbing checklist every Oklahoma homeowner should follow this fall.
Inspect Outdoor Faucets & Hoses
Outdoor plumbing is often the first place freezing temperatures cause problems. To avoid burst pipes:
- Disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor faucets.
- Drain water from hoses and store them inside for winter.
- Check outdoor spigots for leaks and install faucet covers for added protection.
A quick inspection now can help you prevent frozen pipes later.
Check for Slow Drains
The holiday season means more cooking, cleaning, and guests – which puts added strain on your drains. Don’t wait until a clog backs up your sink or shower. This fall, take time to:
- Run water through all drains and note any slow drainage.
- Use a drain-safe cleaner or professional snake to clear blockages.
- Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the sink during holiday cooking.
Taking care of slow drains now means a stress-free kitchen and bathroom later.
Inspect & Insulate Pipes in Vulnerable Areas
Pipes in unheated areas of your home are at high risk of freezing once temperatures drop. Oklahoma homes with garages, crawl spaces, or attics should be checked carefully.
- Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation sleeves or heat tape.
- Seal gaps or cracks that let cold air reach plumbing.
- Pay special attention to pipes along exterior walls.
Preventative insulation is much cheaper than repairing a burst pipe.
Water Heater Maintenance
Your water heater works hardest during the colder months when hot showers and dishwashing demand increase. Keep it running efficiently by performing fall maintenance:
- Flush the tank to remove built-up sediment.
- Check the temperature setting (120°F is ideal for efficiency and safety).
- Inspect for leaks, rust, or unusual noises.
A properly maintained water heater can last years longer and save you money on utility bills.
Sump Pump Testing
Late fall often brings heavy rain to Oklahoma, which can test your sump pump’s ability to protect your home from flooding. To prepare:
- Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to confirm the pump turns on.
- Clean the pump and pit of any debris.
- Consider a backup battery system in case of winter power outages.
A working sump pump keeps basements and crawl spaces dry all year long.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
While DIY maintenance goes a long way, a licensed Oklahoma plumber from Service Pro Plumbing can catch issues you might miss. A fall plumbing tune-up includes:
- Checking for hidden leaks.
- Inspecting water pressure and shut-off valves.
- Ensuring your entire system is winter-ready.
Hiring Service Pro Plumbing now could save you thousands in emergency repairs later.
Final Thoughts
Taking time for fall plumbing maintenance is one of the best investments you can make in your home. From outdoor faucets to water heaters, each step in this plumbing checklist helps you prevent frozen pipes and avoid costly winter disasters.
If you’re ready for peace of mind this season, contact Service Pro Plumbing in Oklahoma City today. Our licensed plumbers can provide a full fall inspection and make sure your home’s plumbing is prepared for whatever Oklahoma weather brings.
