Wisconsin Homeowners: Fix Those ‘Minor’ Plumbing Issues Before Winter Strikes

That slow drip under the kitchen sink has been there since summer. The toilet that runs every few minutes? You’ve gotten used to jiggling the handle. That damp spot in the basement corner? It’s not getting any bigger, so it’s probably fine, right?

If you’rea Wisconsin homeowner, October is your final window to address these “minor” plumbing issues before winter weather creates additionalchallenges.

How Cold Weather Changes Everything

While your home stays warm, winter brings unique challenges that can turn manageable plumbing issues into bigger headaches:

Higher demand on your plumbing system.Winter means more hot showers, increased dishwasher and washing machine use, and greater strain on your water heater. Small leaks that were barely noticeable in summer become more apparent—and more wasteful—when your system is working harder.

Water heater works overtime.That slow drip from your hot water faucet? It’snow forcing your water heater to constantly reheat water, driving up energy billsand potentially shortening the lifespan of your equipment.

Humidity and moisture issues intensify.Wisconsin winters mean closed windows and limited ventilation. That small leak under your sink that dried up quickly in summer now stays damp longer, creating ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth.

Common Fall Plumbing Issues That Get Worse in Winter

Sump pump concerns: Test your sump pump in fall so it’s ready for spring thaw and heavy spring rains. A failing pump discovered in March during peak melt season means potential flooding when you’re most vulnerable.

Water heater strain:Small issues with your water heater. Strange noises, inconsistent temperatures, minor leaks can become major problems when the system is running constantly through cold months.

Fixture wear from increased use: Thattoilet that occasionally runs or faucetthat drips will get more use in winter as families spend more time indoors.

Your Pre-Winter Plumbing Prevention Checklist

Smart Wisconsin homeowners use October to winterize their plumbing systems. Here’swhat to address now:

Essential October Tasks

Test your sump pump– run water to ensure it activates properly

Check your water heater– listen for unusual sounds, check for leaks, test temperature

Fix any dripping faucets– especially hot water faucets that waste heated water

Repair running toilets– eliminate constant water waste

Clear slow drains– prevent complete blockages during heavy-use months

Inspect under-sink areas– address any moisture issues before they worsen in low-ventilation months

Outdoor Preparation (The Real Freeze Concerns)

Disconnect garden hoses– prevent water from backing up into your home’s plumbing

Shut off and drain outdoor spigots– these ARE vulnerable to freezing

Check basement windows and crawl space vents– ensure adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup

Why Professional Help Makes Sense Now

October is the ideal time for plumbing maintenance, just before the winter rush of emergencies, but after the busy summer season.

Make Prevention Even Easier with Cardinal Care Club

The smartest approach to preventing winter plumbing problems? Join Cardinal Care Club and get a free plumbing inspection, a free professional electrical inspection, and AC and furnace tune-ups each year as part of your membership. Along with priority scheduling, exclusive member discounts, and comprehensive maintenance reminders, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes from regular professional oversight of your home’s systems.

Cardinal Care Club members never have to wonder if their plumbing is ready for winter—we make sure it is.

The Cost of Waiting vs. Acting Now

Acting in October:

Scheduled service at regular rates

Time to properly diagnose and fix issues

Prevention of major winter damage

Peace of mind throughout the cold months

Waiting until winter:

Emergency service calls (often at premium rates)

Potential water damage restoration costs

Stress of dealing with problems during holidays

Risk of going without water during repairs

Ready to stop small issues before they become big problems?

Schedule your pre-winter plumbing check. Because the best time to prevent a winter plumbing emergency is before winter arrives.