Common Fall Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them
As the leaves change color and the temperatures start to drop, many homeowners focus on raking leaves and enjoying the crisp autumn air. However, fall also brings unique challenges to your home’s plumbing system that are easy to overlook. At Beemer Plumbing & Excavation, we’re here to help you understand the most common plumbing issues that can arise in fall and provide practical solutions to prevent costly repairs down the road. Let’s look at some of the most common Fall plumbing problems, and how to fix them.
Common Fall Plumbing Problems
1. Clogged Drains from Fallen Leaves
Why It Happens:
One of the biggest culprits for plumbing issues in the fall is leaves. As trees shed their leaves, they can easily make their way into your outdoor drains and gutters. When wet, leaves can form a dense mat, blocking drainage and leading to backups that can affect your indoor plumbing.
How to Fix It:
Regularly clean your gutters and outdoor drains throughout the fall to prevent clogs. Installing gutter guards can also reduce the number of leaves entering your system. If you notice slow draining or water backing up, call Beemer Plumbing & Excavation for a professional drain cleaning service. We use advanced tools to clear clogs efficiently and ensure your drains are flowing smoothly.
2. Pipe Leaks Due to Temperature Fluctuations
Why It Happens:
While mid-November might not bring freezing temperatures yet, the rapid change between warm days and cold nights can still cause your pipes to expand and contract. This fluctuation can lead to small cracks or leaks, especially in older or corroded pipes.
How to Fix It:
Check your pipes for any signs of leaks, such as water spots on walls or ceilings, damp areas under sinks, or an unexpected increase in your water bill. If you suspect a leak, contact Beemer Plumbing & Excavation. We offer leak detection services that can pinpoint the source of the problem and provide a quick, effective solution.
3. Increased Use of Garbage Disposals
Why It Happens:
With fall comes the holiday season, starting with Thanksgiving. Many homeowners use their kitchens more frequently, which puts extra strain on garbage disposals. Food scraps like potato peels, fibrous vegetables, and grease can clog your disposal and lead to unpleasant odors or even damage.
How to Fix It:
Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods down the disposal, and never pour grease or oil down the drain as it can solidify and cause clogs. If your disposal isn’t working properly or is making unusual noises, turn it off immediately and give us a call. Our team at Beemer Plumbing & Excavation can assess the issue and repair or replace your disposal as needed.
4. Tree Root Intrusions
Why It Happens:
As trees prepare for winter, their roots can become more aggressive in seeking out water sources. If there are small cracks or leaks in your underground pipes, tree roots may invade the pipes, leading to blockages or even pipe breakage.
How to Fix It:
Watch for signs of tree root intrusion, such as slow drains, gurgling sounds, or sewage backups. Beemer Plumbing & Excavation offers advanced solutions like hydro jetting and trenchless pipe repair to clear tree root blockages without digging up your yard. Our pipe bursting technique allows us to replace damaged pipes quickly, minimizing disruption to your landscape.
5. Water Heater Problems
Why It Happens:
With cooler weather, households tend to use their hot water heaters more often. This increased demand can expose underlying issues, such as sediment buildup, which reduces efficiency and may cause your heater to struggle to maintain a consistent temperature.
How to Fix It:
Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment and improve efficiency. If you notice fluctuating water temperatures, strange noises, or leaks around the base of the heater, it may be time to call Beemer Plumbing & Excavation for a professional inspection. We can assess whether your water heater needs maintenance or replacement, ensuring you have reliable hot water throughout the season.
6. Sump Pump Failures
Why It Happens:
Fall can bring heavy rains, and if your sump pump isn’t in good working order, it can fail when you need it most. A malfunctioning sump pump can lead to basement flooding, causing water damage and potential mold growth.
How to Fix It:
Test your sump pump regularly by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to ensure it activates and pumps out water properly. If your sump pump doesn’t turn on or if it struggles to clear the water, call Beemer Plumbing & Excavation for a thorough inspection. We can repair or replace faulty pumps, giving you peace of mind during heavy rains.
7. Outdoor Hose Bib Issues
Why It Happens:
Leaving hoses attached to outdoor spigots can lead to trapped water, which can cause the hose bib to crack when temperatures dip below freezing at night. Even in mid-November, sudden cold snaps are not uncommon, especially in the Kansas City Metro area.
How to Fix It:
Disconnect all hoses and drain any remaining water from the bibs to prevent freezing and cracking. Consider installing frost-proof hose bibs for added protection. If you discover a damaged bib, Beemer Plumbing & Excavation can replace it quickly to prevent leaks and water damage.
8. Sewer Line Blockages
Why It Happens:
During fall, the combination of leaf debris and increased water use (from guests during holidays) can put extra strain on your sewer system. Tree roots, grease buildup, and flushing non-flushable items can all contribute to blockages in the sewer line.
How to Fix It:
Be mindful of what you flush and avoid disposing of fats, oils, and grease down your drains. If you experience frequent backups or notice a foul odor from your drains, it could indicate a sewer line problem. Contact Beemer Plumbing & Excavation for a professional sewer line inspection. We use camera technology to diagnose blockages and provide solutions like hydro jetting to clear the pipes effectively.
Why Choose Beemer Plumbing & Excavation for Fall Plumbing Problems?
At Beemer Plumbing & Excavation, our motto is “Easing your mind, one pipe at a time!” We understand the unique challenges that fall brings to your plumbing system. Our experienced team is ready to help you tackle these common issues with fast, reliable service. Whether it’s a minor repair or a major excavation, we have the expertise to handle it all.
Our services include:
- Drain Cleaning
- Leak Detection and Repair
- Sewer Line Inspection and Repair
- Water Heater Installation and Maintenance
- Sump Pump Repair and Installation
- Trenchless Pipe Replacement (Pipe Bursting)
Don’t wait until minor Fall plumbing problems turn into a costly repair. Contact Beemer Plumbing & Excavation today to schedule a service call. We proudly serve the Kansas City Metro area, including Johnson County, KS, and we’re here to keep your plumbing in top shape this fall and beyond.