As the leaves begin to turn in Colorado, it’s time to shift your focus from summer fun to fall preparation. One area that’s easy to overlook, but critically important, is your plumbing system. With colder temperatures just around the corner, the risk of frozen pipes in Colorado, water heater strain, and costly leaks increase significantly.

That’s why fall plumbing maintenance is essential for protecting your home and avoiding unexpected repairs. This comprehensive plumbing checklist for fall will guide you through the key steps to keep your system running smoothly and your home safe as the seasons change.

Why Fall Plumbing Maintenance Is Essential for Colorado Homeowners

Frozen or burst pipes can cause thousands of dollars in water damage. In Colorado, where the first hard freeze can come early, fall is the time to act. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, a burst pipe can cost more than $5,000 in water damage on average. A little fall plumbing maintenance goes a long way in protecting your home and wallet.

1. Insulate and Protect Vulnerable Pipes

Start with any exposed piping in unheated areas like crawl spaces, garages, and basements. These are the most common places for freezing and bursting.

Use foam pipe insulation or install heat tape where needed.
Close crawl space vents and seal gaps that let cold air in.

2. Winterize Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures

Frozen hose bibs and outdoor faucets are a leading cause of burst pipes in the winter.

Disconnect and drain all garden hoses.
Shut off the water supply to outdoor spigots, then open the valves to drain remaining water.

3. Inspect Your Water Heater

Your water heater works harder in the winter to deliver hot water efficiently.

Check for signs of rust, corrosion, or leaks.
Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup that reduces efficiency.
Test the pressure relief valve to ensure safe operation.

4. Prevent Internal Leaks and Water Waste

A slow leak now could turn into a major issue in freezing temps.

Inspect under sinks, behind toilets, and near appliances.
Tighten loose fittings and replace worn washers or seals.
Consider installing smart leak detectors in high-risk areas.

5. Prepare Your Sump Pump and Foundation

Fall rain and winter melt-offs can stress your sump pump and expose foundation weaknesses.

Test the sump pump by pouring water into the pit.
Clear the discharge line and ensure it’s free of clogs.
Inspect your foundation for cracks and seal them to prevent cold air and water intrusion.

Bonus Tips You Might Not Have Considered

Check your washing machine and dishwasher hoses for cracks or bulging.
Know where your main water shut-off valve is located, time matters in a plumbing emergency.
Clean your gutters so melting snow doesn’t overflow near basement-level plumbing.

Why Choose Lion Home Service for Fall Plumbing Prep?

When you trust Lion Home Service with your fall plumbing maintenance, you get more than just expert repairs, you get a partner committed to transparency, quality, and customer care.

We keep you informed with clear, ongoing communication
Our technicians respect your property and keep work areas clean
We help prevent costly septic issues through proactive service
Fully certified: NAWT & CPOW compliant, ethical and professional
Transparent pricing, you approve the cost before we begin

Book Your Plumbing Inspection Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late. A quick check today could prevent an expensive emergency tomorrow. Our team is standing by to help you winterize your plumbing system.

Book online, call, or text to schedule your fall plumbing inspection.

By following this plumbing checklist for fall, you can stay ahead of seasonal issues and keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly. Don’t wait until it’s too late, fall plumbing maintenance is your first defense against costly problems like frozen pipes in Colorado. Trust the experts at Lion Home Service to help you prepare your home for the colder months with reliable, professional care.

Areas We Proudly Serve

At Lion Home Service, we proudly provide full-service plumbing support across Northern Colorado. Whether you’re dealing with frozen pipes, water heater issues, or preparing your home for winter, we’re here to help homeowners in the following areas:

Fort Collins plumbers
Loveland plumbers
Greeley plumbers
Longmont plumbers
Windsor plumbers
Boulder
Estes Park
Bellvue
Fort Lupton
Eaton
Fort Morgan

Stay Protected All Year with the Leo Care Club

Members of our Leo Care Club receive priority service, seasonal maintenance checks, and access to 24/7 monitoring tools that detect plumbing issues before they become emergencies. Enjoy member-only discounts and peace of mind, no matter the season.