Staying on top of your home maintenance with seasonal checks can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your home remains safe and comfortable all year round.
Autumn/Winter
Autumn = March – May
Winter = June – August
Schedule a Master Plumber for:
- Pipe insulation (lagging)
- Roof and gas appliance maintenance
Autumn: A Time to Prepare Your Home for Winter
Autumn is an ideal time to check your roof, but be cautious when doing so! For your safety, it's often best to hire a professional with the experience and equipment needed to safely work at heights. While you’re at it, consider upgrading your rainwater collection system by adding a downpipe water diverter to direct runoff into a holding tank, and a leaf diverter to keep debris out—especially useful for homes surrounded by tall trees.
For homes in frost-prone areas, make sure outdoor pipes, as well as those in garages, attics, or under floors, are properly lagged to avoid freezing. A Master Plumber can check your pipes for potential ice blockages and address any issues before they cause damage.
Gas Appliance Servicing
If you didn’t have your gas appliances serviced in spring or summer, now’s the time to get them checked. This includes portable gas heaters, which can emit toxic carbon monoxide if not properly maintained. Be sure to hire an authorised gasfitter for servicing; unauthorized work could be illegal, dangerous, and may invalidate your home insurance. Master Plumbers’ CEO, Greg Wallace, recommends keeping a record of when appliances were serviced and following the manufacturer's maintenance schedule. After servicing, your qualified gasfitter will issue a gas safety certificate for your records.
Jobs to Tackle This Season:
- Clear spouting, downpipes, and gutters: Blockages from leaves, dirt, and even small animals can cause overflows and water damage. Regular cleaning helps can prevent this.
- Check your attic: Look for leaks, water damage, or signs of mould that may be hidden from view.
- Inspect your roof: Look for damaged, warped, or missing roofing materials such as tiles and corrugated iron. Any roof damage can compromise your home’s insulation, leaving you vulnerable to cold, damp conditions.
Spring/Summer
Spring = September – November
Summer = December – February
Schedule a Master Plumber for:
- Hot water cylinder (HWC) maintenance
- Gas heater and roof servicing
Spring and Summer: Perfect for Home Maintenance
These seasons offer the best weather for booking maintenance work, and professionals are often more available for urgent requests. As plumbing demands surge during the colder months, scheduling ahead can ensure your home is ready before winter.
With lower hot water usage in spring and summer, it's a great time to check for leaks or signs of corrosion in your water heating system—saving you from more costly repairs down the line.
Gas Appliance and Heater Checks
Greg Wallace, CEO of Master Plumbers, advises that gas appliances should be serviced before winter to ensure safety and efficiency. If you use gas for both heating and cooking, have your gasfitter check both systems at the same time. They'll inspect burners, test for wear and tear, and replace any necessary parts.
Jobs to Tackle This Season:
- Clear gutters and roofs: Remove leaves and debris, and flush downpipes to ensure proper drainage. Trim overhanging branches that could damage your roof or gutters.
- Inspect for leaks: Check your washing machine, taps, showers, baths, and dishwashers for any signs of leaks. Even small drips can lead to dampness and potential damage over time.