You can make your winter go much easier as far as plumbing issue are concerned by following these simple tips. Winter is a time for special family gatherings, lots of guests and freezing temperatures. What that means for your plumbing is the increased risk of sink clogs, burst frozen pipes, higher energy bills and hot water problems. One way to reduce the chances of plumbing problems during the winter season is to prepare for it.
If you live where freezing temperatures are a possibility shut off outside water valves. Turn off the garden hose valve outside ahead of the first cold months. This will protect the pipes from bursting by preventing water from entering the hose and freezing. If you have indoor valves that lead to outdoor faucets, close those off as well. Be sure to drain any lines of excess water.
Don’t forget to inspect your sump pump. A poorly performing or malfunctioning sump pump can let water enter the basement following the first thaw. That can cause a big flood. Make sure that the pump and basin are in good shape. Check to make sure that the cable and outlet connecting them to the electrical supply are free of any damage. Run the pump at least once to be sure it is operational.
Know where your homes main valve is located. In the event something goes wrong during a family gathering and a flood, clog or overflow occurs indoors, you will want to rush to turn off the main valve. Know where it is located ahead of time. You will want to know where it is even for general plumbing maintenance all year round. You can prevent frozen pipes from happening. When water freezes in pipes it causes the pipe to expand until it cracks. Expanding water can increase the pressure and create more problems through the whole plumbing system. Any weak pipe areas are sure to fail and cause a flood in places like garages or attics. Most of the time frozen pipes cause the greatest trouble when they are in higher places like attics but crawl spaces are vulnerable, too.
You could invest in a few clamps to have on hand in the event a pipe bursts and you are home. That can help you make a temporary fix until your emergency plumber gets there to help. A good way to keep pipes from freezing in the first place is by keeping the faucets on to a slow drip. The water will keep moving through the plumbing and keep pipes from bursting. Know to do this if you plan on leaving your home for an extended period during the winter or you could return home to a terrible problem. Have all of your pipes fitted with insulation sleeves or wraps if possible. And, be sure to avoid having the pipes installed in the attic or areas which are vulnerable during pipe freezes. If you cannot do this, at least keep the temperature in the home to about 55 degrees F if you are away for several days and don’t want to let the faucets drip. Enjoy the season more and experience fewer plumbing problems. Take the time to prepare your homes plumbing for winter.
