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Winter is Coming: Prepare Your Home’s Plumbing for Cold Weather


thermostat

As the cold months approach, homeowners need to think beyond just heating their homes. One of the most critical areas to protect during winter is your plumbing system. Cold weather can wreak havoc on pipes, causing them to freeze and potentially burst, which can lead to costly repairs and water damage. By taking proactive steps now, you can ensure that your home’s plumbing is well-prepared to withstand the harsh winter conditions.


Here are essential tips to prepare your plumbing for cold weather and prevent potential issues.


Insulate Your Pipes to Prevent Freezing

One of the most common plumbing problems during winter is frozen pipes. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, increasing the risk of the pipes bursting. This can lead to serious water damage in your home and expensive repairs.


To avoid this issue, make sure to insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as basements, garages, and crawl spaces. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to wrap around pipes, providing an extra layer of protection from the cold.


If you’ve ever wondered, how to prevent frozen pipes, insulation is your first line of defence.


Keep Your Heating System Running

In addition to insulating pipes, it’s essential to keep your heating system running efficiently throughout the winter. Maintaining a consistent temperature in your home, even when you’re away, can prevent your pipes from freezing. Set your thermostat to at least 12°C (54°F), especially in colder regions where temperatures may drop below freezing at night.


If you're concerned about energy costs, modern thermostats allow you to schedule temperature settings, ensuring that the house stays warm without running the heating system unnecessarily.


Disconnect Outdoor Hoses and Drain Outdoor Faucets

Another key step in winterising your plumbing is to disconnect outdoor hoses and drain exterior faucets. Water left in hoses or outdoor faucets can freeze, leading to bursts in both the hose and connected pipes. Once you’ve disconnected the hoses, make sure to turn off the interior shutoff valves and drain any remaining water in the pipes.


For added protection, consider installing frost-proof outdoor faucets that are specifically designed to handle colder temperatures without freezing.


Check for Leaks Before Winter Hits

Small plumbing leaks may seem like a minor inconvenience during warmer months, but they can become much more problematic when temperatures drop. Even a tiny leak can freeze and cause pipes to rupture.


Before winter arrives, inspect your home’s plumbing for leaks, especially in areas that are exposed to the elements. This includes checking under sinks, in the basement, and around any water fixtures. If you notice any signs of moisture or dripping, address the issue immediately by calling a professional plumber.


plumber

Know Where Your Shut-Off Valve Is Located

In case of an emergency, it’s crucial to know where your home’s main water shut-off valve is located. If a pipe bursts, you’ll need to turn off the water supply quickly to minimise damage. Typically, the shut-off valve is located in the basement, garage, or near the water meter.


Familiarise yourself with its location now so that you’re prepared to act fast in the event of a burst pipe.


Schedule a Professional Inspection

While there are many things you can do to winterise your home’s plumbing on your own, nothing beats a professional inspection. A qualified plumber can spot potential issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye, ensuring your plumbing is fully prepared for winter.


Schedule an inspection before the cold weather arrives to catch any issues early and make necessary repairs. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that your plumbing system is ready to handle the winter months without any problems.


Conclusion: Prepare Your Home’s Plumbing for Cold Weather

Preparing your home’s plumbing for winter is essential to avoid costly repairs and ensure your system runs efficiently throughout the cold season. By insulating pipes, checking for leaks, and maintaining your heating system, you can significantly reduce the risk of frozen or burst pipes.


Taking these preventive measures now will save you money and hassle later. If you need assistance with winterising your plumbing, don’t hesitate to contact Jubo Heating and Electrical. Our team of experts is here to help keep your plumbing in top shape all year round.


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