If you live in Lakewood, WA, you know that fall isn’t just about pumpkin spice and football—it’s about leaves. Everywhere. From the tree-lined streets of Oakbrook to the cozy neighborhoods near American Lake, fall leaves are part of the charm—and the problem.
You might rake your yard and clear the gutters, but many homeowners forget that those same leaves can cause real plumbing problems when they start backing up downspouts, sump pump drains, or even city sewer lines. That’s why it’s critical to pay attention to both your above-ground and underground drainage this season.
Why Fall Leaves Are a Hidden Plumbing Threat
Leaves don’t just sit prettily on your lawn—they travel. And when they clog exterior drains or accumulate around downspouts, they can:
- Flood your basement or crawlspace
- Overwork your sump pump
- Block your stormwater drain connections
- Cause root intrusion in older sewer lines
Lakewood’s mature tree canopy is a beautiful asset, but it also increases your risk of plumbing issues in the fall. If you’re noticing slow drainage, gurgling pipes, or pooling water around your yard, it’s time to call a professional.
✅ Don’t wait until it backs up—call a Lakewood, WA plumber now at (253) 533-9060 or use our contact form to request an outdoor drainage check.
3 Key Outdoor Plumbing Checks Before Rain Season
Even if your indoor plumbing is running fine, the fall weather in Lakewood puts extra pressure on your exterior water systems. Here’s what to inspect:
- Clear Yard and Downspout Drains
Leaves and yard debris can block stormwater flow and downspout drains. A quick DIY check or a professional snake can help prevent overflows. - Inspect Gutter-to-Drain Connections
Lakewood homes often use underground drainage pipes to channel gutter water away from the home. If these are clogged or collapsed, you’re at risk. - Test Your Sump Pump
A good sump pump should turn on automatically when water rises. But it’s best to test it manually before it’s needed—especially with fall storms on the way.
☎️ Worried about sump pump failure or drain backups? A local Lakewood, WA plumber can help inspect everything before it becomes an emergency. Call (253) 533-9060 today.
What About Your Interior Plumbing?
While we’re focused on outdoor drainage here, fall is also a good time to brush up on how to shut off your main water valve in case of a sudden leak or pipe burst. With temperatures starting to drop, knowing how to act quickly can prevent costly damage.
And don’t forget—Einstein Pros provides a full-year seasonal plumbing guide for Lakewood, WA to help you plan ahead and avoid common issues in every season.
📞 Need expert help? Reach out today via our Lakewood contact form or call (253) 533-9060 to schedule your inspection.