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Weather changes in autumn can bring about changes in your home’s plumbing system. Preparing for these changes can prevent damage to the pipes and protect your home from leaks. The following tips will help you get ready for the coming cold weather.
Pipes that freeze overnight can burst, causing hundreds or even thousands of dollars in damage to your home and property. While there are many tricks that homeowners use to prevent their pipes from freezing (like leaving the tap running overnight), installation of pipe insulation is one of the best methods that you can use to help keep your pipes warm.
Self-adhesive pipe insulation is easy to cut down to the right size and also easy to attach to pipes. Simply measure the length of each pipe, use a utility knife to slice the insulation to the right length, then attach.
This is an easy DIY project that can happen over an afternoon or over the course of many days. Homeowners who don’t want to shell out the money for the insulation can wrap their pipes in newspaper and twist ties.
Just remember that some hidden pipes in your home may still be vulnerable to freezing weather, if they can’t be insulated. Pipes located around the outside perimeter of the home are especially vulnerable. To keep these pipes from freezing, you’ll still need to leave these faucets running on very cold nights, and keep your home’s heating system set to at least 55 degrees.
Disconnect all garden hoses from your home’s exterior and drain the water if possible. Leave the hose sitting in a garage or somewhere else sheltered. Have a plumber fix any leaking faucets that were connected to hoses to prevent icicles from forming later in the season.
Your home’s water heater may need to work extra hard this winter to keep producing the expected amount of hot water for your home. Before the cold weather begins, inspect your hot water heater for signs of deterioration. Rust, scale, puddles of water and other warning signs should be addressed immediately. While you’re inspecting the unit, check the temperature pressure relief valve to prevent the unit from exploding, and drain the existing sediment in the bottom of the tank. This will help ensure that your water heater is prepared to last through the coming winter.
Your home’s sump pump prevents your basement from flooding when it rains. Check your sump pump to ensure that the discharge line is clear and free of debris. If the sump pump has been having technical problems, contact a plumber.
Fall is just around the corner. Now is the time to get your home and plumbing ready for fall. To find out more, or to get your home’s water heater or sump serviced, contact Terry’s Plumbing. We’re here to keep your home free from water damage this autumn!
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