When it gets colder outside, piping is much more susceptible to cracking, bursting, and freezing. When this happens, you’ll have to call a plumber to come out and fix the issue, which can take a big chunk out of your wallet. It is important that you know the systems in your home and how they work so that if something does happen, than you will know what to do and who to call. There are many things you can do to prevent any breakages, freezing, or any other issues in the home. Read them below!
Pipe Insulation: You should use foam padding or special insulating tape to guard both hot and cold water pipes against freezing. Any exposed pipe or plumbing fixtures should be kept warm with space heaters from a safe distance. Every few days it is a good idea to check pipes that are not used frequently, because they may be accumulating frost which could lead to a breakage.
Don’t Forget About Outdoor Appliances and Hoses: Always un-attach your garden hoses before freezing temperatures arrive in the fall. Close the shut-off valve on the pipes which lead to your outdoor appliances. You should also drain the water from these hoses or appliances and store them throughout the winter. They will end up freezing if there is any residual water left in the hose and they are left out during colder weather.
Eliminate Any Drafts in the Home: Check around your home for areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas and take measures to prevent the flow of cold air in these areas. This could be anything like basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, etc. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated. Contrary to what one may think, hot water pipes can freeze just as easily as cold water pipes. It is important to keep water running through these pipes frequently so that they do not freeze up.
Be Careful with Your Holiday Cooking: Cooking grease and oils put a real strain on drains, pipes and garbage disposals. Grease and oil are more likely to collect and clog when your plumbing is colder, so it is best not to pour oil and grease down the drains in your home. You should always run cold water through the disposal for at least 15 seconds before and after each use. Be sure to turn the disposal on before filling it with food debris.
These are just a couple of tips to help you manage your plumbing systems throughout the colder season, if you need further assistance, contact your local plumbing contractors!