Winter-Ready Plumbing Tips to Protect Your Home from Freezing Temperatures

Summer in Tennessee means cookouts, long weekends, and more time spent at home—but it also means more stress on your plumbing system than you might think. At TLH Plumbing, we get a lot of emergency calls during the warmer months that could’ve been easily avoided with a little summer prep. So before the humidity hits full force, let’s talk about why summer plumbing maintenance is so important here in the Volunteer State. 1. More Water Use = More Wear and Tear School’s out, the kids are home, and everyone’s using more water—showers, laundry, running the sprinkler, filling the pool, you name it. Why it matters: More usage can uncover existing issues like leaks or weak pipes Your water heater and drains work overtime Small problems can snowball into major repairs Summer’s a good time to check for hidden leaks or slow drains before they become big headaches. 2. Tennessee Storms Can Stress Your Sewer System If you've lived in TN for long, you know how unpredictable summer storms can be—one minute it's sunny, the next you’re in the middle of a downpour. Heavy rain can: Overwhelm your sewer or septic system Cause backflow into your home (gross!) Lead to flooded basements or yards Maintenance tip: A quick inspection of your sump pump, sewer lines, or drainage system can prevent thousands in water damage later. 3. Outdoor Plumbing Gets Put to Work Think: garden hoses, outdoor kitchens, irrigation systems, and pools. Summer outdoor plumbing checklist: Check spigots and hose bibs for leaks or rust Test sprinkler systems for pressure and alignment Make sure outdoor drains are clear of debris Even something as simple as a leaky hose connection can lead to wasted water and higher utility bills. 4. Prevention > Emergency Repairs Nobody wants to call a plumber during a summer BBQ or long weekend, but that’s exactly when problems tend to show up—when your system is under pressure and everyone’s home. Regular maintenance can help you avoid: Burst pipes Water heater failure Clogged toilets and drains Unpleasant surprises on holidays or vacations A quick summer check-in can help you enjoy the season stress-free. What We Recommend at TLH Plumbing Here’s what a summer plumbing tune-up might include: Full system inspection (inside and out) Checking for leaks, corrosion, or wear Drain cleaning if needed Water heater check-up Inspection of outdoor plumbing fixtures And if you haven’t had a plumber out in over a year, summer is the perfect time to get back on track. Call TLH Plumbing Before Summer Heats Up We’re proud to serve homes and businesses across Middle Tennessee with reliable, honest plumbing care. Whether you need routine maintenance, a quick fix, or expert advice, we’re here to help. Don’t wait for something to break—let’s catch it early. Reach out to TLH Plumbing today and schedule your summer plumbing check-up. Your home (and your wallet) will thank you.

When you're gearing up for a long-overdue vacation, the last thing on your mind should be plumbing problems back home. Whether you're escaping the Tennessee heat or heading out for the holidays, safeguarding your home's plumbing before you leave can help you avoid leaks, bursts, and high water bills. At TLH Plumbing, we want every Tennessee homeowner to return to a problem-free home, so we’ve put together this essential vacation plumbing checklist. Why Plumbing Prep Matters Before You Leave Even a few days away can give minor plumbing issues the opportunity to escalate. Dripping faucets, frozen pipes (in winter), or water heater malfunctions can become costly disasters if left unchecked. A quick plumbing prep not only protects your home but also gives you peace of mind while you’re away. 1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply This is the most effective way to prevent leaks or flooding while you’re gone. If a pipe bursts or a valve fails, having the water turned off can make the difference between a damp floor and thousands of dollars in water damage. How-to : Locate your home’s main water valve—usually near the water meter or where the main line enters your house. Turn it clockwise until it’s fully closed. 2. Drain and Flush Once the water is off, turn on your faucets and flush your toilets to drain the remaining water in the lines. This is especially important during winter months when pipes can freeze. Bonus Tip : Pour a small amount of plumbing-safe antifreeze into toilets and drains if you expect freezing temperatures. 3. Adjust or Turn Off the Water Heater If you’re gone for more than a few days, your water heater doesn’t need to work full-time. Tank Water Heater : Turn it off or switch it to “Vacation Mode” to conserve energy. Tankless Water Heater : Most units have a vacation setting or can be turned off entirely. 4. Check for Leaks Before You Go Inspect faucets, toilets, and under-sink pipes for any signs of drips or leaks. Even a slow leak can cause damage or spike your water bill over time. Not sure what to look for? TLH Plumbing offers fast, affordable leak inspections in the greater Tennessee area. 5. Clean and Clear Drains Pour a little baking soda and vinegar down your kitchen and bathroom drains to help eliminate odors while you’re gone. Run your garbage disposal with cold water to clear any leftover debris. Don’t forget : Empty the dishwasher and washing machine and leave them slightly open to prevent mold and mildew buildup. 6. Inspect and Secure Outdoor Fixtures Tennessee weather can be unpredictable. Before heading out: Disconnect and drain garden hoses. Check outdoor spigots for leaks. Consider using faucet covers in the winter. 7. Let Someone Know If a trusted neighbor or friend is watching your home, let them know how to reach your plumber in case of emergency. TLH Plumbing provides prompt, local service across Tennessee—and we’re just a call away. TLH Plumbing’s Vacation-Ready Home Checklist: ✔ Shut off main water valve ✔ Drain water lines ✔ Adjust water heater ✔ Check for leaks ✔ Clean drains ✔ Secure outdoor plumbing ✔ Leave emergency contact info Need Help Prepping? TLH Plumbing Is Here for You! Going away soon? Whether you're leaving for a weekend or a month, our licensed plumbing experts can help inspect and prepare your system before you leave. Schedule a quick home visit with TLH Plumbing today and vacation with confidence. Call us at (931) 263-4900 or R equest Service Online