Cold weather is a nightmare for the plumbing system in most areas, especially those susceptible to snow and other cold elements. Failure to take the required steps to prevent problems can lead to frozen pipes, leaks, and even worse. That is why the Kansas City plumbing company has prepared these tips to help you maintain your plumbing system during the winter season.
The main aim of these tips is to help you avoid simple issues that may end up escalating into bigger problems and cause costly damages. Whether you live in a harsh weather climate area or a mild weather place, the following tips will help you prepare your home for the upcoming winter months.
Pipe Insulation
Insulating your pipes should be among the top activities on your list when it comes to protecting your plumbing in winter. The insulation helps keep the poles warm and prevent heat loss. This in turn can reduce your energy bills and prevent the pipes from freezing. Frozen pipes can burst and result in flooding and water damage.
To insulate the pipes, consider using foam pipe sleeves, heat tape, or spray foam insulation. Ensure to insulate all exposed pipes, specifically those located in cold areas around your home, like the basement, attic and garage.
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Disconnect Outdoor Faucets
Another way to protect your pipes from the cold is by disconnecting the outside faucets. Since they are outdoors, they are exposed to the cold air, which can cause them to freeze easily. This can lead to cracks or bursts. To disconnect the pipes, turn off the main water pipe, drain the water, and cover the hose with a towel or appropriate protector. This measure can save you from expensive repairs in the future.
Keep A Dripping Faucet
During cold weather, increase how your faucet drips; this will prevent the pipes from bursting. Normally, water expands as it freezes which can create pressure in the line. Increasing how the faucet runs can relieve some of the pressure and reduce the chances of the pipes bursting.
Keep Warm Air Circulating
Winter means everything gets cold; therefore, not only for your plumbing systems, but you also need to keep the temperature consistent. Avoid turning the heat too low while you are outside, especially at night, because the temperature at home will drop below freezing point, and your pipes will end up frozen, leading to emergency or costly repairs.
Ideally, your home temperature should always be set at a minimum of 13°C. Consider using a smart or programmable thermostat that will automatically adjust the temperature based on schedule.
Shut Off Your Main Water Valve
Shutting off the main valves will ensure your heater is running properly all the time. If you are leaving your home for a long period or you expect the temperature to drop drastically, you should always shut off the main water valve.
This will prevent the pipes from getting frozen or bursting. You can find the valve next to the water meter in the basement or utility board. Additionally, you should open the faucets in the kitchen and bathroom to drain the water that remains in the pipe.
Drain your Water Heater
When you leave your heater with water in it, there are chances of sediment buildup, corrosion and damage to not only the tank but the whole heating element. Consider draining the water at least once annually. Among the best ways to prevent freezing and save energy in winter is by sealing off the crawl space.
This is the area under your house where the pipes are situated along the walls or floor. Those pipes exposed to cold can damage the whole plumbing system, so sealing them off will cover gaps and cracks in the walls, vents, foundation, and doors. Also, a plastic sheet should be laid on the floor to prevent mold and moisture from accessing them.
Fix Leaks
Leaks should be fixed as soon as possible because leaks can waste water, increase your bills, and damage your property. Leaks can also make your pipes vulnerable to cold and eventually burst in winter. The ideal way to fix a leak is to identify the source of the leak and turn off the water supply or work with professionals like Bill Fry The Plumbing Guy who is experienced in handling plumbing issues. What’s more, these kinds of companies will offer you advice on how to maintain and prevent future plumbing issues.
Open Your Cabinets
Opening your cabinets is among the simplest yet effective ways to maintain your plumbing system in the cold season.
Closing kitchen and bathroom cabinets allows the circulation of warm air around the pipes that are under your sink and prevents them from freezing. Companies will offer you advice on how to maintain and prevent future plumbing issues.
Prepare When Going for a Vacation
If you plan to go on a vacation where you will be away for several days during winter and fall, it’s essential to prepare your home and plumbing system to avoid problems when you return. Some of the simple precautions to take include leaving your cabinet doors open, turning off the main shutoff valve, draining water from all pipes, and turning off the power and gas supply to the water heater.
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Conclusion
A lot of precautions need to be taken in cold weather; first, you need to protect yourself and your family. Secondly, you need to protect important areas in your home, including the plumbing system. The Kansas City plumbing company has offered some advice that will save you money and time and increase the lifespan of your plumbing system.
Some of this advice includes insulating your pipes, keeping dripping faucets, shutting off your main valves, draining your water heater, opening the cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom, making crucial preparations when going on a vacation, and many more.
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