End-of-Summer Pool and Sprinkler Shutdown: Plumbing Tips to Save Water and Money in the Sauk Valley As August's heat lingers in the Sauk Valley, pools and sprinkler systems are still the heartbeat of many backyards in Dixon, Sterling, Rock Falls, and surrounding areas. But with September’s cooler evenings on the horizon—especially as we approach late August 2025—it’s time to start thinking about winterizing these systems. Properly shutting down your pool and irrigation setup not only prevents costly damage from freezing temperatures but also conserves water—a precious resource during our region’s dry late summers. At Lenhart Plumbing, we’re here to guide Sauk Valley homeowners through essential plumbing tips to save water, money, and stress as the seasons shift. Why Late-Summer Shutdowns Matter in Sauk Valley The Sauk Valley’s late summer can be deceptively warm, with temperatures often hovering in the 80s through August and into early September. However, our region’s transitional weather means frost can sneak in by late September, threatening exposed pipes and pool systems. Add to that the potential for water restrictions due to dry conditions—common in Illinois during late summer—and proactive maintenance becomes critical. According to the Illinois State Water Survey, our area has faced periodic drought watches in recent years, making water conservation a priority for eco-conscious homeowners. Winterizing now ensures your systems are protected and your water usage stays efficient. Step-by-Step Guide to Shutting Down Your Pool Pools are a summer staple, whether you’re cooling off after a day on the Rock River or hosting a Labor Day barbecue. Here’s how to shut down your pool to avoid plumbing issues and save water: Clean and Balance the Water: Start by skimming debris and vacuuming the pool. Test the water chemistry to ensure pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels are balanced. This prevents corrosion or scale buildup in pipes during the off-season. Lower the Water Level: Drain the pool to just below the skimmer line to protect the plumbing. Use a submersible pump and direct water to a safe drainage area, avoiding runoff into storm drains to comply with local regulations. Drain and Clear Plumbing Lines: Remove water from all pipes, filters, pumps, and heaters. Use a shop vac or air compressor to blow out residual water—crucial in Sauk Valley, where freezing temperatures can crack pipes if water remains. Winterize Equipment: Disconnect and store hoses, clean filters, and lubricate O-rings. For above-ground pools, consider disassembling parts to prevent wind damage during our blustery fall. Cover Securely: Invest in a high-quality pool cover to prevent debris buildup and reduce evaporation, saving water during dry spells. Pro Tip: Not sure if your pool’s plumbing is fully drained? Lenhart Plumbing offers professional winterization services to ensure every line is clear, preventing costly repairs come spring. Winterizing Your Sprinkler System Irrigation systems are vital for keeping Sauk Valley lawns lush, but leaving water in the lines can lead to burst pipes when temperatures drop. Follow these steps to winterize your sprinkler system: Shut Off the Water Supply: Locate the main shut-off valve for your irrigation system (often near your water meter) and turn it off to prevent water flow. Drain the System: Open all manual drain valves to release water. For systems without manual drains, use the auto-drain feature or hire a professional to blow out lines with compressed air. This is especially important in areas like Morrison or Amboy, where early frosts are common. Check for Leaks: Inspect sprinkler heads and visible pipes for leaks or cracks. Even small leaks can waste hundreds of gallons—critical during potential drought conditions. For example, a single dripping sprinkler can waste up to 1,000 gallons per month, per the EPA. Insulate Exposed Pipes: Wrap above-ground pipes, like backflow preventers, with insulation tape or foam covers to protect against freezing. Schedule a Professional Inspection: If you’re unsure about hidden leaks or system pressure, Lenhart Plumbing can perform a thorough check to ensure your system is ready for winter. Water Conservation: A Sauk Valley Priority With the Illinois Department of Natural Resources occasionally issuing water conservation advisories for our region, shutting down pools and sprinklers efficiently can make a big difference. Here are eco-friendly tips to maximize water savings: Fix Leaks Promptly: A small leak in your pool or sprinkler system can waste thousands of gallons over the season. Lenhart Plumbing’s leak detection services use advanced tools to pinpoint issues without invasive digging. Upgrade to Smart Irrigation: Consider installing a smart sprinkler controller that adjusts watering based on weather forecasts, reducing usage during late-summer dry spells. Recycle Pool Water: When draining, redirect water to irrigate your lawn or garden (if local regulations allow), rather than letting it go to waste. By taking these steps, you’re not only protecting your property but also supporting our community’s efforts to conserve water—a win for both your wallet and the environment. Why Choose Lenhart Plumbing? At Lenhart Plumbing, we’ve been serving Sauk Valley and surrounding areas for over 20 years, helping homeowners from Dixon to Sterling prepare for seasonal changes. Our licensed plumbers specialize in pool and sprinkler winterization, leak detection, and eco-friendly upgrades. We understand the unique challenges of our region’s climate and water needs, and we’re committed to delivering reliable, cost-effective solutions. Ready to winterize? Don’t let late-summer heat fool you—September’s cooler nights are just around the corner, and with today being August 17, 2025, now’s the perfect time to act. Schedule a professional inspection or winterization service today to protect your plumbing and save water. Contact us at (815) 625-3252 or visit www.lenhartplumbing.com to book now. Let’s keep your Sauk Valley home ready for the seasons ahead! Serving Dixon, Sterling, Rock Falls, Morrison, Amboy, and beyond with trusted plumbing expertise.

🏠 Buying a House in the Sauk Valley Area? Don’t Skip the Plumbing Inspection! What Homebuyers Need to Know Buying a new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. From touring properties to negotiating contracts, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. But before you sign the dotted line, there’s one critical step that could save you thousands in future repairs — a professional plumbing inspection. At Lenhart Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homebuyers in the Sauk Valley and surrounding areas avoid costly surprises. Here’s what you need to know before you move forward with your dream home. 💧 Why Plumbing Inspections Matter Most standard home inspections only provide a surface-level review of the plumbing system. A licensed plumber digs deeper, inspecting components that a general inspector may overlook — like sewer lines, water heaters, and hidden leaks. A pre-purchase plumbing inspection can help identify: 🚿 Hidden water leaks or corroded pipes 🚽 Drainage or sewer line issues 💦 Low water pressure or outdated plumbing fixtures 🔥 Water heater age, condition, and capacity ❄️ Pipe insulation and risk of freezing during cold Illinois winters 🛠️ What We Check During a Lenhart Plumbing Inspection When you schedule a pre-purchase plumbing inspection with Lenhart Plumbing, here’s what we typically evaluate: Water Supply Lines: Checking for corrosion, leaks, and proper water pressure Drain Lines: Video camera inspection of main sewer lines for blockages, root intrusion, or pipe damage Water Heater: Assessing lifespan, performance, and safety concerns Fixtures & Faucets: Ensuring sinks, tubs, toilets, and showers operate correctly Basement & Crawlspace Plumbing: Inspecting for sump pumps, moisture issues, and proper drainage Pipe Material & Age: Verifying if the home has outdated galvanized piping or other problem-prone materials 🏚️ The Hidden Costs of Skipping a Plumbing Inspection Ignoring plumbing issues during a home purchase can lead to major headaches, including: Emergency pipe repairs 💸 Sewer backups or basement flooding 🌊 Mold and water damage restoration 🧼 Full pipe replacement costs, especially in older homes 🏚️ These repairs can cost thousands and aren’t always covered by homeowners insurance. ✅ Peace of Mind from Lenhart Plumbing Whether you’re buying your first home in Dixon, moving to a farmhouse near Sterling, or investing in a rental property in the Sauk Valley, a plumbing inspection from Lenhart Plumbing can give you peace of mind and negotiating power before you commit to the purchase. 💬 Tip: If we uncover problems, you may be able to negotiate repairs or a lower price before closing. 📞 Schedule Your Pre-Purchase Plumbing Inspection Today Don’t leave your dream home to chance. Call Lenhart Plumbing to schedule a comprehensive plumbing inspection before you buy. We proudly serve Sterling, Dixon, Rock Falls, and all surrounding Sauk Valley communities. 👉 Call us today or book online to protect your investment. Lenhart Plumbing – Honest, reliable plumbing services trusted across the Sauk Valley for over 20 years.