This time of year it is pertinent that homeowners do a few things to help their plumbing make it through the fall and winter seasons.  Here is a checklist from the PPC and Andrew Jonathon at Flat Rate Plumbing:

• If you have frost-proof lawn faucets they should be turned off and drained before freezing begins outside.  Turn off the 1/2″ valve (inside the home) that serves the lawn faucet.  Then, turn the faucet on outside to relieve any extra water that may be sitting in the faucet and/or piping.

• If you have pipes that run along an outside wall and have a faucet with a history of freezing on you during the winter months, leave the cabinet door ajar below the sink.

• Clear all down spouts of any leaves or other debris so water and any snow melt can flow freely.