As the chilly winter months draw closer, it’s essential to prepare your home for the cold weather. In addition to stocking up on cozy blankets and hot cocoa, homeowners should pay special attention to their plumbing systems. Without proper preparation, pipes can freeze and burst, causing extensive damage to your home. While you can always ask for the help of a professional plumbing contractor in Jonesborough, there are also some smart practices you can implement on your own to help prevent potential disasters.
Insulate your pipes.
One of the main causes of frozen pipes is lack of insulation. When temperatures drop below freezing, any water left in your exposed pipes can freeze and expand, causing them to burst. To prevent this from happening, Novel Management team advises that you need to insulate all exposed pipes in your home. This can be done with foam pipe insulation or by wrapping towels or blankets around the pipes.
Keep your home warm.
Another way to prevent frozen pipes is by keeping the temperature in your home at a consistent level. This means turning up the heat or using space heaters in areas that are not well insulated, such as garages or attics. Keep cabinet doors under sinks open so warm air can circulate around the pipes.
Let faucets drip.
On particularly cold nights, let your faucets drip slowly to prevent water from freezing in the pipes. This constant movement of water can help prevent freezing and keep your pipes flowing smoothly. Just be sure to catch any drips in a bucket or container so as not to waste water.
Drain outdoor faucets.
As winter approaches, it’s important to drain any outdoor faucets and disconnect any hoses. This will prevent any water from freezing and causing damage to the pipes. It’s also a good idea to shut off the water supply to these outdoor faucets if possible.
Have your plumbing system inspected.
Before winter hits, it’s a good idea to have a professional plumbing contractor inspect your entire system. They can identify potential issues and make necessary repairs or upgrades to help prevent any problems during the colder months.
Know how to shut off your water.
In case of an emergency, it’s crucial to know how to shut off the main water supply to your home. This will prevent any major flooding or damage in case of a burst pipe. Ensure all household members know where the shut-off valve is located and how to use it.
By following these smart plumbing practices, you can ensure that your home’s plumbing system survives the winter without any problems. Remember to stay proactive and address potential issues before they become major problems. If you do experience any issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumbing contractor for help.
