This is the time of year when you can’t go into a store without seeing pumpkins and fall colors everywhere.

While it might me more fun to be putting up your fall decorations, it is important to add a few home improvement to-dos to your list this fall.

These to-dos are an important part of protecting your home from the harsh weather and cold temperatures of the winter month.

This is especially true for your plumbing system.

Most of your plumbing system is installed in the ground outside so it is vulnerable to the weather. If it is cold outside your plumbing system is going to sustain some extra wear and tear.

Thankfully, you can take some precautions to ensure that your plumbing system makes it through the cold temperatures of the winter without leaving you and your family vulnerable:

• Even the smallest leak in your home can lead to some serious problems. If you noticed any leaks over the last few months but, were putting off getting them fixed  – this is the time to make that call. Small leaks that are left unrepaired will quickly escalate into a major problem once the cold temperatures of the winter arrive.
• Call to have your septic system inspected and the tank pumped. Your septic system should be inspected at least one time per year and the tank pumped once every three years. If you haven’t had these things done year – this is the time to do them. Your entire septic system is installed in the ground so, the tank, pipes, and fittings are going to sustain some damage that could be a real problem if you don’t have them properly serviced.
• If your outdoor water hoses are still connected – this is the time to get them disconnected and stored away for the winter. Your hoses are made from a material that is great for funneling water but, not great for insulation. The water that is inside of the hose can easily freeze and cause damage to the hose bib that it is connected to.

Make sure that your home is ready for the winter by following these simple winterizing tips. Your plumbing system is an important part of your home and keeping it in top working condition is a big job during the fall months.