As summer winds down and the weather begins to shift, homeowners often shift their focus away from outdoor maintenance. But don’t forget about what’s happening behind the walls and under the floors—your plumbing system needs attention too.
At Aedile Plumbing, we know that a few simple steps in early fall can help prevent cold-weather plumbing problems, from frozen pipes to failing water heaters. September is the perfect time to tackle a seasonal checklist that keeps your home running smoothly and avoids costly repairs.
1. Inspect Outdoor Spigots and Hoses
Before Houston’s occasional cold snaps hit, inspect all outdoor spigots and remove attached hoses. Leftover water can freeze and expand, damaging your hose bibs or bursting your pipes.
- Turn off the water supply to exterior faucets if possible
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses
- Consider installing freeze-proof spigots or hose bib covers
A small step now can prevent major water damage later.
2. Check for Hidden Leaks
Fall is a great time to do a full-home leak check. Look for:
- Musty smells near cabinets
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Soft spots near sinks, tubs, or toilets
- Running toilets or dripping faucets
These small leaks may seem minor, but they can lead to mold, structural damage, and high water bills. A licensed plumber from Aedile can perform a full inspection and fix issues before they worsen.
3. Test Your Water Heater
Your water heater works harder in the fall and winter, especially if temperatures drop. That’s why now is the ideal time to:
- Flush your tank to remove sediment
- Inspect the anode rod
- Check the pressure relief valve
- Ensure your thermostat is set to a safe and efficient 120°F
If your unit is over 10 years old or showing signs of wear, now is the time to schedule a water heater tune-up—or consider a tankless upgrade.
4. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters don’t just affect your roof—they can cause water to pool around your home’s foundation and leak into your basement or crawl space. Water near the base of your home can infiltrate your plumbing or cause pipes to shift.
Make sure gutters are:
- Cleared of leaves and debris
- Properly sloped toward downspouts
- Directing water away from your foundation
Good drainage keeps both your roof and plumbing system safe.
5. Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
Exposed or poorly insulated pipes are vulnerable to freezing—even in southern climates. Attics, crawl spaces, garages, and basements are the most at-risk areas. Add pipe insulation or heat tape to these areas now to avoid frozen pipe bursts later.
Pro tip: Schedule a plumbing winterization service with Aedile Plumbing if you plan to travel during colder months.
6. Know Where Your Shutoff Valve Is
Emergencies happen—especially when temperatures fluctuate. Every homeowner should know the location of their main water shutoff valve. If a pipe bursts or leaks unexpectedly, shutting off the water quickly can save thousands in damages.
If you’re unsure where yours is or how to operate it, one of our plumbers can show you during a service call.
Fall is a Smart Time to Schedule Preventive Maintenance
Most homeowners don’t think about plumbing until something goes wrong. But a few small actions in September can save you money, hassle, and stress all season long.
Whether you need a water heater inspection, leak detection, or help insulating pipes, Aedile Plumbing is ready to help. Our licensed technicians serve League City and surrounding areas with fast, honest, high-quality plumbing service.
Book Your Fall Plumbing Checkup Today
Don’t wait until the cold sets in. Call Aedile Plumbing today to schedule your fall plumbing inspection or maintenance visit—and start the season with peace of mind.
