Dealing with unexpected plumbing problems during the coldest time of the year would be challenging especially with winter now fast approaching. Winter, more than any other season, may negatively impact your plumbing. It could lead to you almost constantly using hot water, which can cause issues with your heated pipes.
For the majority of Americans, the winter months can be terrible. According to Ingraham (2020), the state and city levels of the out-migration rate are particularly high in January when the temperatures are low. He went on to say that, based on the 2013 CBS News study, only 1 in 10 Americans have a favorable opinion of the winter season.
The fact is that many people see winter as an inconvenient time, for two reasons:
1) Considering the ice and extreme cold, winter makes it difficult to go about our daily lives the usual way; and
2) It causes a variety of plumbing issues in our homes.
Because of this, it’s critical for us homeowners to preserve our plumbing systems in the winter to prevent any major damage to our plumbing. You may prevent having your plumbing damaged by being ready for unforeseen circumstances.
Tips to Take Care of Your Plumbing This Winter
Any problems that impede your plumbing from operating at its finest should be avoided. Here are some suggestions to prevent any issues from arising:
1. Clean/Unclog your drains.
Drains must be unclogged in order to facilitate water flow through the pipes. However, this is often neglected until the drains become flooded. To protect your drains, you have to use a removable drain strainer so that unwanted debris is trapped, thereby preventing obstructions in the sinks. Another tip is not to treat your drains like a trash can. Clear your drains of nasty debris like coffee grounds and fatty substances like cooking oil or liquid fats to prevent clogs. When the temperature drops, grease solidifies in the pipes, eventually blocking them. Some DIY methods to unclog the drain is using vinegar and baking soda, mixed with salt, and cream of tartar. After putting this mixture down the drain, you must then pour boiling water down each drain.
2. Insulate the pipes.
Frozen pipes are one of the major issues that might occur throughout the winter. To prevent pipes from bursting when they get frozen, be sure to turn off the water supply and let a faucet drip onto the frozen pipes. However, always remember to insulate your pipes, particularly those pipes that are situated in unheated locations like the garage, attic, and crawl spaces. Employing foam sleeves or wrapping your pipes with materials such as insulating tape, blankets, towels, or newspaper is one way to protect the pipes from the cold. Experts also advise using the heating cable to increase the effectiveness of pipe insulation, especially if the pipes are sensitive or vulnerable.
3. Disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets.
Before the temperature drops below freezing, remember to unplug garden hoses from the faucet. Frozen pipes can result from leaving hoses out in the winter because any leftover water that could enter the pipes will freeze if it gets too cold. Drain water from hoses and spigots during the winter and store them until spring.
4. Maintain a constant flow of water from each valve.
Slow water drips provide pressure relief and a defense against frozen pipes. Listen to your weather forecasts and if you find out that your area will have an overnight temperature drop of below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, you need to turn on each faucet in your house to a trickle. If you have a frozen pipe, keep the faucet turned. A small trickle can help your pipes start to thaw.
5. Open your cabinet doors.
Open the kitchen cabinet doors to let warm air flow through and reach the frozen pipes. To allow heat to enter the cabinets and warm the pipes, you can also position an industrial fan, blow dryer, fan, or portable heater close to the cabinet doors. Additionally, make sure that the temperature in your home does not drop below 40 degrees F. This temperature will keep your house warm and comfortable while also allowing you to save energy.
6. Have a 10-minute break in between showers.
Especially if you have a number of guests staying at your house over the holidays, give the bathroom water heater adequate recovery time by establishing a 10-minute interval between showers in the winter to keep it functioning properly. Furthermore, long before winter even starts, your water heater needs to be inspected and serviced. By doing this, issues like a faulty heating element or a shortage of hot water supply are prevented from happening.
7. Purchase an alert system.
It is preferable if you can keep an eye on the temperature in your entire house during the winter. You may regulate and monitor the temperature in your home using alert systems like a Wi-Fi thermostat or a wireless temperature sensor.
If You’ll Be Away From Home This Winter
Pro advice suggests either you leave the water on or turn it off if you want to leave town during the winter. Also, you have to make sure to adjust the thermostat at home to a high level to prevent freezing.
Call a Plumbing Expert
Keep the phone number for your plumber close at hand. In the event of an emergency plumbing catastrophe, it would be best to seek the assistance of qualified professionals. When things get really bad, just call a skilled and certified plumbing technician to assist you in fixing your plumbing issues.
