Winter is upon us, and it’s essential to prepare for the weather so that you are not out in the cold. Many plumbing mishaps can occur when the temperature drops and the snow starts to fall. You will learn the top 5 tips to avoid these common winter mishaps.
- Don’t Let Your Pipes Burst
Winterizing your exterior pipes is crucial because they can freeze and burst, leading to serious consequences. One way to prevent this is by disconnecting any hoses attached to spigots, draining the water, and storing them during the winter. One of the most dangerous aspects of exterior water pipes is that they are located outside. The best way to protect them is by making sure they are insulated. This will significantly boost their heat resistance and help keep them from freezing over in cold weather.
- Prevent The Pipes In Your Home From Freezing
Leaks, floods, and malfunctioning appliances can all result when water pipes freeze. Fortunately, you can take some simple steps to prevent this from happening in your home. Leave your faucets dripping slightly overnight to relieve pressure, open cabinets below sinks to allow warm air to circulate the pipes, insulate exposed pipes with insulation material, and install pressure relief valves. These precautions can help keep your home safe and functional during cold winter weather.
- Keep Your Water Heater Working Well
Most water heaters see a lot of use in the winter when people fill their homes with friends and family. You can do a few things to prevent problems with your water heater, including maintaining it and insulating the pipes that supply it with water. If your water heater isn’t meeting your needs, you may need to order repairs or request a total replacement. You can also consider using a water heater blanket to protect it from heat loss.
- Avoid Septic Tank Problems
Septic tanks that are not properly covered can freeze, causing drainage problems, component breakage, and sewage backups into your home. You can prevent these problems by:
- Ensuring that the soil is well-covered around the tank
- Insulating the tank with straw
- Pumping the tank before winter
- Reducing water usage
- Avoiding driving or parking over the septic field
- Reduce Risk Of Flooding Due To Snow
When the snow melts too quickly, it can cause flooding and significant damage. Make sure you take these steps to prevent flooding in your home. Inspect and clean your outdoor drainage systems so that water is routed away from your home as the snow and ice melt. Check and clean your gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems. Check your sump pump to make sure it’s working correctly, and add a backup sump pump if necessary. Make sure there is plenty of clearance around your foundation, so that melting snow doesn’t cause flooding. Clear away snow at least five feet from your foundation perimeter. Clear snow from your roof to avoid it melting and leaking into your home.
There are many ways that you can prevent these plumbing mishaps. Contact your friends at Norfolk Plumbing if you experience any of these mishaps or to winterize your home.