Your Fall Plumbing & HVAC Maintenance Checklist for a Stress-Free Season

Fall in North Texas means cooler temps, unpredictable weather, and the perfect time to prepare your home for the months ahead. Taking care of your plumbing and HVAC systems before winter hits can save you from costly repairs, frozen pipes, or a broken furnace when you need it most. In this blog, we’ve created the ultimate fall maintenance checklist to keep your home running smoothly, efficiently, and safely—courtesy of your local experts at HAT Plumbing, Heating & Air.

✅ 1. Schedule a Fall HVAC Tune-Up

Before the cold sets in, schedule professional HVAC maintenance to:

• Clean and inspect your furnace or heating system
• Replace air filters
• Test your thermostat and system controls
• Check for carbon monoxide leaks
• Ensure efficient operation all season long

HAT’s licensed techs provide thorough fall checkups to keep your system safe and energy-efficient.

✅ 2. Reverse Ceiling Fans for Winter Mode

Set ceiling fans to spin clockwise to push warm air down and circulate heat more evenly. It’s a small step that makes your home feel warmer and helps your HVAC system work less.

✅ 3. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Colder weather increases the risk of frozen pipes, especially in unheated areas like garages or attics. Use foam pipe insulation to wrap vulnerable spots, or contact us for a plumbing inspection to identify problem areas.

✅ 4. Drain and Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Leaving hoses attached can trap water in the line, leading to bursts or outdoor faucet damage. Always disconnect hoses and shut off the water to exterior spigots if you have a dedicated valve.

✅ 5. Flush Your Water Heater

Fall is a great time to flush your water heater and remove sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency and damage your tank. We can handle this as part of a seasonal plumbing tune-up.

✅ 6. Check for Hidden Plumbing Leaks

Inspect under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater for dampness, rust, or mold. Catching a plumbing leak now prevents bigger problems later—especially when pipes are more vulnerable during cold snaps.

✅ 7. Seal Drafts Around Doors and Windows

Not only does this keep your home more comfortable, but it also prevents your HVAC system from working overtime. Use caulk or weather stripping to block cold air from seeping in.

✅ 8. Test Your Sump Pump (If You Have One)

Ensure your sump pump works properly in case of fall storms or heavy rain. Pour a bucket of water into the pit to see if the pump kicks on. For added peace of mind, schedule sump pump maintenance with HAT.

✅ 9. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Leaves can clog your drainage system, which can lead to water pooling near your foundation—a major risk for leaks and pipe issues. Clean gutters and check that downspouts direct water away from your home.

✅ 10. Schedule a Fall Plumbing & HVAC Inspection

The best way to catch small issues before they turn into big problems? Call the pros at HAT Plumbing, Heating & Air for a full fall system inspection. We’ll test, tune, and troubleshoot your plumbing and HVAC systems—so your home stays warm, dry, and efficient all season.

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