As colder weather approaches in Springfield, IL, it’s time to schedule your plumbing inspection to protect your home from winter damage. At F.J. Murphy & Son, Inc., we specialize in professional plumbing services, delivering reliable and friendly care to homeowners and local businesses alike. Call F. J. Murphy & Son, Inc. today to ensure your plumbing is ready for the freeze!
Why Schedule a Fall Plumbing Inspection
Fall is the ideal time to check your plumbing for vulnerabilities. A thorough plumbing inspection prevents costly damage, such as burst pipes, foundation flooding, and frozen fixtures. Some homeowners think that once summer is over, their plumbing is safe—but cold temperatures, frost, and freeze-thaw cycles can be harsh on under-insulated pipes, sump pumps, and exposed outdoor lines.
For homes in Springfield, IL, where winter temperatures can dip well below freezing, neglecting one component—such as an outdoor faucet—could lead to significant trouble: icicles, cracks, and water damage. A routine inspection from F. J. Murphy & Son, Inc. ensures that your plumbing, heating, and drainage systems are in good working order. Don’t wait for the first freeze; schedule your appointment now. Call F. J. Murphy & Son, Inc. to secure your inspection.
How to Winterize Pipes
Protecting your pipes is perhaps the most important part of a fall plumbing inspection. Here’s how to do it right:
- Seal and insulate interior pipes: Pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, crawl spaces, and garages, are especially vulnerable. Use foam sleeves or heat tape to wrap exposed pipes.
- Drain unused water lines: If you have water lines to outdoor features or infrequently used rooms, turn off their supply and drain them entirely.
- Maintain indoor heat: Set your thermostat to at least 55°F, even when you’re away. A consistent indoor temperature helps prevent freezing.
- Locate main shut-off valve: Know where your main water shut-off is in case a pipe bursts. Test it to ensure it works smoothly.
Why winterize? When water freezes, it expands. That pressure can burst pipes, resulting in severe flooding. Costly repairs aren’t just for the pipe itself—they can affect walls, flooring, electrical outlets, and even your foundation.
Preparing and Maintaining Sump Pumps
Your sump pump often doesn’t get much attention until you need it. In the fall, it’s critical to:
- Inspect and clean the pit: Remove debris, sludge, or any sediment that could block flow.
- Test the pump: Pour water into the pit and verify the pump starts, pumps water away and shuts off correctly.
- Examine discharge line: Ensure it leads far enough away from the home and isn’t blocked or frozen.
- Backup power check: If you have a battery backup, make sure it’s charged and in good working order. If you have a generator or other backup device, test it as well.
A well-maintained sump pump can prevent basement flooding when snow melts or heavy rain hits. Without proper care, a failed pump might leave you with water intrusion—something no homeowner wants when the weather warms up.
Winterizing Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
Outdoor faucets, hose bibs, and sprinkler systems are often overlooked, yet they are exposed to freezing temperatures that can cause serious damage.
- Disconnect and store hoses: Leaving hoses attached can trap water in the line, which can expand and damage the faucet connection or pipe.
- Shut off exterior water supply: Many homes have interior shut-off valves for outdoor faucets—turn them off and open the outdoor faucet to drain residual water.
- Install frost-free spigots where possible: these are designed to reduce the risk of freezing. If replacing one, consult a plumber for proper installation.
- Protect spigots and pipes: Add insulation or faucet covers for extra protection against cold temperatures. Even a wrapped towel during cold snaps can provide some relief.
Additional Checks During Inspection
While winterizing pipes, sump pumps, and outdoor faucets are major priorities, a comprehensive plumbing inspection should also address related systems that could impact winter comfort and safety.
- Water heater: Is it operating efficiently? Any leaks or signs of corrosion?
- Heating plumbing: Radiators, boilers, baseboard heaters—do they need bleeding, flushing, or repair?
- Emergency plumbing services: Check if parts are aging, fixtures are loose, or you notice any slow drains or gurgling sounds—signs that trouble is developing.
- Fire sprinkler systems: If your business or home has sprinklers, ensure that pipes in unprotected areas don’t have trapped water that could freeze.
- HVAC-associated piping: Condensate drains, refrigerant lines—ensure they’re insulated and clear.
When to Call the Professionals
Many homeowners can do basic winterizing. But when things get complicated—or dangerous—it’s time to call in the experts. F. J. Murphy & Son, Inc. offers professional plumbing care that ensures safety, code compliance, and long-lasting results.
You should call us when:
- Pipes are hidden or difficult to access
- You notice any leaks, cracks, or rusted pipe fittings
- Your sump pump fails the test, or backup power is unreliable
- Outdoor faucet repairs or replacements are needed (especially frost-free ones)
- You want a full system inspection, including fire sprinklers, HVAC plumbing, or commercial-grade piping
Don’t leave your plumbing to chance. Contact F. J. Murphy & Son, Inc. for professional services today.
Benefits of a Professional Fall Plumbing Inspection
Choosing a professional inspection brings advantages that go beyond DIY fixes:
- Early detection of small problems before they become major repairs
- Expert advice on upgrading insulation, replacing fixtures, or installing better systems
- Code compliance and safe installation of components, especially in complex plumbing or fire sprinkler systems
- Warranty protection—many fixtures require professional installation to keep warranties valid
- Energy savings, fewer water leaks, and lower heating bills when your plumbing is properly fitted and insulated
Contact F.J. Murphy & Son, Inc. today to schedule a full fall plumbing inspection and secure the safety of your home before winter arrives.
Fall Plumbing Checklist for Homeowners
Here’s an overview to help you track what needs to be done this season:
| Task | Why It’s Important |
| Seal & insulate exposed interior pipes | Prevents freeze damage |
| Drain seasonal lines & fixtures | Avoids trapped water that expands |
| Inspect & test sump pump and backup power | Avoids basement flooding |
| Disconnect hoses & shut off outdoor faucets | Prevents pipe burst at outside walls |
| Clean the water heater & check for leaks | Efficiency and safety |
| Check fire sprinkler system (if applicable) | Ensures reliability in cold weather |
| Inspect HVAC-associated drainage lines | Prevents water damage & mold |
Even with this list, a trained technician from F. J. Murphy & Son, Inc. can spot issues you might miss.
Contact Our Team for Professional Service Today
Winter in Springfield, IL is beautiful—but it can be harsh on your home’s plumbing. Investing in a fall plumbing inspection is one of the smartest ways to protect your property, save money, and avoid emergencies. From winterizing pipes to ensuring your sump pump works and your outdoor faucets are sealed, thorough preparation ensures peace of mind.
For quality service you can trust, contact F. J. Murphy & Son, Inc. today. Our team stands behind our work with experience in plumbing, piping, HVAC, fire sprinklers, refrigeration, and more. Call F. J. Murphy & Son, Inc. at 217.528.4081 now to schedule your inspection before the winter cold sets in!
