As winter settles in, it’s crucial to think of ways to keep your home cozy and warm while keeping plumbing problems at bay. Your home’s plumbing system is just as vulnerable to harsh winter weather as you are. Extreme cold temperatures can cause severe damage to your pipes and water fixtures, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
Here are some tips to combat winter weather at home and prevent plumbing problems:
Insulate pipes
Insulating your pipes is perhaps the best way to prevent them from freezing, especially if they run through unheated spaces like crawl spaces, attics, or along walls. Insulation sleeves or wraps can keep heat in the pipes and protect them from extreme cold temperatures. Make sure to insulate all types of pipes, including hot water and cold water pipes.
Drain outdoor fixtures and hoses
Before winter hits, it’s crucial to disconnect all hoses from outdoor fixtures and drain them completely. Water left inside the hoses can freeze and expand, causing damage to the hose and fixture, or even the water pipe connected to it. Once you’ve emptied the hoses, store them safely inside until you’re ready to use them again next summer.
Clear gutters
Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and freeze, leading to ice dams that can damage the roof or cause water to leak into the house. Before winter comes, clear all debris and leaves from your gutters to ensure that water can flow freely and not freeze.
Keep the heat on
Keeping the heat on in the house, even when you’re away on vacation, can help prevent pipes from freezing. If you’re going away for an extended period, set your thermostat to a minimum of 55 degrees F to keep the indoor temperature warm enough to prevent freezing. Additionally, open the cabinet doors under your sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
Seal leaks
Seal any gaps or leaks in the house that could let in cold air, such as around doors, windows, and electrical and plumbing fixtures. Caulk or weatherstripping can help seal these gaps and keep the heat inside. Not only does sealing gaps help keep your house warm, but it can also reduce your energy bills.
Schedule a Plumbing Inspection
Before winter arrives, it’s always a good idea to have your plumbing system inspected by a professional plumber. Plumbers can detect any potential issues that could cause problems during the winter months, such as broken pipes, clogged drains, or leaky fixtures. They can also advise on whether any additional steps are needed to protect the plumbing system from harsh winter weather.
Conclusion
Winter is a beautiful season, but it’s important to prepare your home’s plumbing system for its challenges. Taking these preventative measures can help you avoid costly repairs and replacements that result from winter-related plumbing problems. Refer to these tips to keep your house warm and your plumbing system functional throughout the winter months.
At Ace Plumbing Repair, we offer a wide range of plumbing services to keep your indoor plumbing in top condition. And if you do experience any issues during the winter months, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team of licensed and insured plumbers is available 24/7 to provide emergency repairs when you need them. Call us at (844) 711-1590, or visit aceplumbingrepair.com to request a service today.
Call Now