If you’ve been through a few Antelope winters, you know the drill. Warm afternoons, then a sudden cold snap that freezes everything overnight. Pipes that were fine in October can split by December. A quick plumbing inspection before the cold sets in can keep that from happening.
At Gilmore Heating, Air & Plumbing, we help homeowners in Antelope, Roseville, and Citrus Heights spot small issues before they turn into burst pipes, flooded basements, or ruined drywall. It’s simple: a little attention in the fall can save a lot of trouble once the temperature drops.
Why Seasonal Plumbing Checks Matter
Cold weather is tough on plumbing. Pipes expand and contract, old seals dry out, and water sitting in outdoor lines can freeze solid. Add in the extra demand that comes with the holidays, and weak spots start to show.
Scheduling a plumbing inspection in the fall lets us find problems early. That means fewer emergencies, fewer leaks, and more peace of mind when the first frost hits.
A seasonal check-up can:
- Catch slow leaks before they soak floors or walls
- Keep pipes from freezing during cold nights
- Clear slow drains before heavy holiday use
- Extend the life of older plumbing systems
- Help you avoid high water bills and damage repairs
Sacramento-area homes also have to deal with hard water buildup, which can weaken pipes over time. A yearly inspection keeps that in check and helps you stay ahead of repairs.
What a Professional Inspection Covers
A good plumbing inspection looks at your whole system, not just one fixture. At Gilmore, we start with a walkthrough and a few simple tests, then move on to a detailed check of your lines, drains, and water heater.
Here’s what we typically cover:
- Leak checks under sinks, around appliances, and near the foundation
- Outdoor pipe inspection and insulation recommendations
- Water pressure testing to prevent future bursts
- Water heater check for corrosion, sediment, and proper heating
- Drain and trap inspections for clogs or buildup
- Shut-off valve testing to make sure they work when you need them
By the end of the visit, you know exactly how your plumbing is doing. If something needs fixing, we’ll explain it clearly and let you decide when to handle it.
Common Problems Found in Local Homes
Homes around Antelope, Roseville, and Citrus Heights share a few plumbing challenges. Some come from the local soil and weather. Others are just the result of time.
Here’s what we find most often during winter inspections:
- Outdoor faucets that froze and cracked last year
- Pipes in crawl spaces with no insulation
- Water heaters working overtime to keep up with demand
- Kitchen drains clogged with grease and food waste
- Hidden leaks that show up as musty smells or higher water bills
None of these problems start out big, but left alone, they can do serious damage. Finding them in November is a lot easier than dealing with them in January.
How Gilmore Helps You Prepare for Colder Months
Gilmore’s plumbers know what Antelope homeowners deal with every winter. We look for the issues that actually cause trouble here, not a generic checklist from somewhere else. Our inspections are designed around local conditions and the kinds of plumbing systems common in Sacramento-area homes.
We use advanced leak detection tools, inspect visible lines, and make straightforward recommendations. If a drain needs cleaning, a valve looks weak, or a pipe is exposed, we’ll show you and explain your options.
What sets us apart:
- Real local experience from licensed plumbers who live and work nearby
- Accurate diagnostics using modern tools
- Preventive options like drain cleaning and pipe insulation
- Honest communication with no upselling
- Reliable scheduling and long-term plumbing maintenance
A lot of our customers pair their inspection with drain cleaning to clear buildup before winter. It’s an easy way to keep everything flowing smoothly through the holidays.
A Few Tips for Homeowners
You can do a few simple things between visits to protect your plumbing through the colder months:
- Wrap exposed pipes in insulation or foam sleeves.
- Keep a slow trickle of water running on freezing nights.
- Open sink cabinets to let warm air reach pipes.
- Avoid pouring fats or grease down kitchen drains.
- Check under sinks occasionally for small drips or damp spots.
These small habits, along with an annual inspection, keep your plumbing healthy all winter long.
Schedule a Plumbing Inspection with Gilmore
We serve Antelope, Roseville, and Citrus Heights with dependable plumbing maintenance and repair. If we find a leak, we’ll fix it fast. If your drains need cleaning, we can take care of that during the same visit.
Before the cold sets in, give your plumbing a quick check-up. Gilmore’s licensed plumbers can inspect your lines, drains, and fixtures to make sure everything’s ready for winter.
Don’t wait until a freeze or storm exposes a problem. Book your plumbing inspection with Gilmore before winter arrives, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is ready for the season.
FAQs
How often should I have my plumbing inspected?
Once a year is best, especially before cold weather.
Will you check my drains during the inspection?
Yes. We test and flush all accessible drains and can clean them if needed.
Do you inspect water heaters too?
Absolutely. We check performance, sediment buildup, and safety components.
What if you find a leak?
We’ll show you exactly where it is and explain the best repair options before we start.
Can I do any of this maintenance myself?
Yes. Insulating pipes and keeping drains clear goes a long way, but a professional inspection catches problems you can’t see.