How to Winterize Your Plumbing in Ohio: Seasonal Checklist for Homeowners
Keep Your Plumbing Safe Before the Cold Hits
Ohio weather can be unpredictable, with humid summers giving way to freezing winters. That’s why a seasonal plumbing checklist is essential. By tackling small maintenance tasks at the end of summer and taking steps to winterize plumbing in Ohio, you can prevent costly breakdowns and frozen pipes when temperatures drop.
End-of-Summer Plumbing Checklist for Ohio Homes
As summer winds down, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. Here are a few things to check off before fall arrives:
- Inspect outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks or drips.
- Check sump pump function before fall rainstorms.
- Look for small leaks under sinks and around toilets.
A simple end-of-summer inspection helps extend the life of your equipment, prevents costly breakdowns, and keeps your home running smoothly year-round.
Why Winterizing Your Plumbing Matters
When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands. This pressure can crack or burst pipes, leading to major water damage. In areas like Canton, North Canton, and Stark County, where temperatures regularly dip below freezing, prevention is always more affordable than repairs.
Steps to Winterize Your Plumbing
- Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages.
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses to prevent leftover water from freezing.
- Shut off exterior faucets and drain water lines.
- Seal gaps and cracks where cold air can enter.
- Keep your thermostat at 55°F or higher, even if you’re away.
- Locate your shutoff valve so you’re prepared for emergencies.
- Schedule your annual boiler service! Don’t get caught without heat when the cold weather hits!
When to Call a Professional
Not sure where to start? A licensed plumber can give you peace of mind. At Grabill Plumbing & Heating, we’ve been serving Stark and Summit County homeowners for over 60 years, helping families prepare homes for fall and prevent frozen pipes in Ohio.
Contact us today to schedule your seasonal plumbing inspection and start the season worry-free.
