As the leaves start to fall and the Louisiana air turns crisp, it’s easy to forget about your home’s plumbing system. But fall is actually the perfect time to prepare your pipes, water heater, and drains for the cooler months ahead.
At Mark Johnson Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Ruston, LA avoid costly winter plumbing problems with simple, preventative maintenance. Here are five fall plumbing tips to keep your home running smoothly this season.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Even in Louisiana, temperatures can dip below freezing during the late fall and winter months. Exposed pipes in basements, attics, and outdoor areas are vulnerable to freezing and bursting—especially during overnight temperature drops.
Wrap pipes in insulation foam or heat tape to help prevent costly damage. Pay special attention to outdoor faucets and spigots, which are often the first to freeze.
Pro Tip: Disconnect all garden hoses before the first cold snap to avoid frozen water backing up into your home’s plumbing.
2. Flush and Inspect Your Water Heater
Your water heater works hardest in the fall and winter when your household uses more hot water for showers and laundry. Flushing your tank once a year removes sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency and cause corrosion.
Mark Johnson Plumbing’s licensed technicians can perform a full water heater tune-up in Ruston, LA, ensuring your system runs efficiently and safely before cold weather sets in.
3. Check for Hidden Leaks
Small leaks can turn into big problems once temperatures drop. Inspect under sinks, behind toilets, and around your water heater for moisture or drips.
If you suspect a hidden leak, our team offers leak detection services using state-of-the-art technology to locate and repair issues quickly—before they cause damage to your home.
4. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can send rainwater pooling around your foundation, causing erosion or even basement flooding. Take the time this fall to remove leaves, twigs, and debris so that water can drain freely away from your home.
A clear drainage system not only protects your foundation but also prevents unnecessary stress on your sump pump and plumbing lines.
5. Schedule a Fall Plumbing Inspection
The best way to catch plumbing issues early is through a professional inspection. Our Ruston plumbing maintenance service includes a full system check, covering:
- Leak detection and pipe inspection
- Water heater testing
- Sump pump and drain checks
- Pipe insulation evaluation
Regular maintenance is the easiest way to prevent emergencies and extend the life of your plumbing system.
Why Ruston Homeowners Trust Mark Johnson Plumbing
For more than 20 years, Mark Johnson Plumbing has proudly served Ruston and surrounding Louisiana communities with honest, reliable plumbing services. Our licensed professionals offer upfront pricing, same-day service, and solutions you can depend on.
Whether you need fall plumbing maintenance, emergency repair, or water heater service, our team is ready to help.
Schedule Your Fall Plumbing Maintenance in Ruston, LA
Don’t wait until a cold snap hits to prepare your home’s plumbing. Call Mark Johnson Plumbing today or schedule online for professional fall plumbing maintenance in Ruston, LA. We’ll make sure your home is leak-free, efficient, and ready for the season.
FAQ
Q: When should I schedule fall plumbing maintenance in Ruston?
A: Early fall is ideal—before the first freeze or temperature drop.
Q: How can I tell if my pipes need insulation?
A: Any pipes located in unheated or outdoor areas should be insulated.
