Your home’s utility systems are called into action much differently in fall than in summer. The transition from summer to fall demands can create some unexpected heating, plumbing and emergencies. Here are a few emergencies you might experience with your heating, plumbing and electrical systems this fall.
Fall Heating Emergencies
Your heating system has been on summer break, and your system cooling system has taken center stage over the summer. As temperatures drop, your heating system is on deck.
Here are some unexpected heating issues your system might experience:
- Thermostat issues: A faulty thermostat creates problems within your HVAC system including inconsistent heating and wasted energy.
- Clogged air filters: While not an emergency, dirty air filters can put unnecessary pressure on the performance of your system and cause components to fail early.
- Your heat won’t turn on: After not being used for months, your heat system could fail to ignite. That could mean there is an issue with your pilot light in older units or a problem with the electronic ignition system in newer units.
- Your system is making unusual sounds: You often hear a click when your system turns on, but unusual noises like screeching, rattling or grinding mean something needs to be addressed with your system.
Fall Plumbing Emergencies
Your plumbing system is under a lot of demand over the summer with watering the lawn, washing the car and cold showers to cool down, but in the fall, all eyes are on your home’s ability to deliver hot water to meet the high demands of busy schedules.
Here are some unexpected plumbing issues your system might experience this fall:
- Frozen pipes: Nothing will stop your plumbing system in its tracks like a frozen pipe. As temperatures drop the risk of frozen pipes increases. Pipes exposed to cold air, especially in unheated areas, are most prone to freezing and bursting.
- Clogged gutters: Falling leaves can lead to clogged gutters that can back up water into your drywall or redirect water onto your home’s foundation. Fallen leaves can also clog the exit of the drainage system attached to your sump pump. Check and clean your gutters regularly this fall to avoid this fall home emergency.
- Water heater woes: As your demand for hot water increases over fall and into winter make sure your water heater is up to the task with preventive maintenance. Over time, sediment can build up inside your water heater, forcing your system to work harder to deliver hot water or even causing it to burst. Systems can also experience metal rust corrosion that decays components and can cause leaks.
Fall Electrical Emergencies
Some of the most common electrical emergencies can occur in the fall, such as fallen power lines, tripping breakers and electrical appliance issues. Less daylight during the fall means more time spent inside your home using your electrical appliances to keep you warm and cozy.
Here are some common fall electrical emergencies:
- Overloaded circuits: Overloaded circuits carry a significant risk of causing a fire in your home especially if your home’s wiring is old or faulty. Wires can overheat and start a fire at the source.
- Improper use of portable heaters: Portable heaters used close to combustible materials such as drapes or bedding can also cause fires. Electric space heaters should always be plugged directly into an outlet, never into an extension cord or power strip, and never left on overnight.
- Outdoor electrical issues: Fallen leaves and other debris can damage the home’s outdoor electrical components. Outdoor outlets should be inspected to ensure they are properly rated for outdoor use and in good condition. Leaves and branches can also damage power lines. Check the lines for debris that could cause a power outage.
Choose Larry & Sons for Home Services in Maryland, Pennsylvania & West Virginia
While you can never fully prepare for an emergency, the best way to limit potential problems with your home’s plumbing, heating and electrical systems is to enroll in an annual maintenance program. At Larry & Sons, we’ve got you covered with the expert service you can trust. We are your source for preventative maintenance or emergency repair.
Contact us online now to schedule HVAC, plumbing, or electrical services.