As the winter season approaches and temperatures start to dip, it's essential for homeowners to take proactive steps to protect their plumbing systems. Frozen pipes can lead to a myriad of issues, from minor inconveniences to significant water damage and costly repairs. Here at ServiceOne, we’re committed to helping you through every season, which is why we offer fall plumbing maintenance to ensure your system is ready for the cold winter months ahead.
Below, we go over some tips to ensure your plumbing system is winter-ready.
The dangers of frozen pipes
The freezing and expansion of water within your plumbing system can exert significant pressure on your pipes, causing them to burst. When this occurs, homeowners are not only faced with the hassle of repairing the pipes, but also the potential for substantial water damage in, and around, their homes. Burst pipes are one of the most common causes of property damage during frigid weather and can cause thousands of dollars in damage.
Steps to prevent frozen pipes
Insulate exposed pipes
Exposed pipes are the most susceptible to freezing. Insulate these pipes, particularly those in basements, crawl spaces and near exterior walls, using pipe-insulating material available at hardware stores.
Drain water from outdoor faucets and hoses
Disconnect garden hoses and drain water from outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems. This will prevent water from freezing in these areas, which can cause pressure build-up and burst pipes .
Keep a steady temperature
Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, even when you're not there. The extra cost of heating can be far less than the cost of repairing a burst pipe. Temperatures below 55 degrees significantly increase the risk of frozen pipes in your home.
Let faucets drip
If you expect extremely low temperatures, let your faucets drip slightly. Running water, even at a trickle, can help prevent pipes from freezing.
Seal up cracks and holes
Seal gaps and holes where cold air may infiltrate your home and come into contact with pipes. Caulking or insulation can be effective solutions.
Why professional winterizing is worth it
At ServiceOne, we strongly recommend having a professional assess and winterize your plumbing system. While DIY methods can be effective, nothing beats the assurance of having a licensed professional check for vulnerabilities in your system. They can spot potential issues you might miss and ensure that all preventive measures are properly implemented.
ServiceOne: Your one simple solution for winterizing your home
ServiceOne has been serving homeowners for over 30 years with our wide range of residential and commercial services, from heating and cooling to plumbing and electrical work. Our qualified, bonded and insured technicians provide timely and efficient services, ensuring your plumbing system is winter-ready.
Winter is a beautiful season, but it can wreak havoc on unprepared plumbing systems. As the weather outside gets colder, taking precautions can save you time, effort and money in the long run. Trust ServiceOne to prepare your plumbing system for winter and protect your home from the costly inconvenience of frozen pipes. Give us a call today for all of your fall plumbing maintenance needs!