5 Important Winter Plumbing Tips

Know The Location of Your Home’s Main Water Shut-Off Valve

The risk of your pipes freezing and bursting skyrockets when the temperatures plummet. If a plumbing emergency such as a burst pipe happens, it’s important to know where the main water shut-off valve is located and how to turn off the water. This will help you prevent water damage in your home in the event of a plumbing emergency. The main water shut-off valve is usually located near the front foundation wall or close to where the water main line enters your home.

Insulate Plumbing Pipes in Unheated Spaces

This is one of the first things you should do when preparing your home’s plumbing for the cold weather. If any of your pipes are running through unheated spaces, such as the basement, garage, under the kitchen sink, or along exterior walls, it is crucial to ensure these pipes are insulated. Pipe insulation will be your first line of defense against frozen pipes when the temperatures plummet. Wrap exposed pipes in heat tape or fiberglass insulation tubes to add a layer of protection against freezing. It’s also advisable to have your pipes inspected before winter sets in to ensure they’re in tip-top shape. You’ll protect your property from water damage by replacing deteriorating pipes and fixing minor issues.

Keep Your House Warm

Low indoor temperatures are a major culprit for frozen and burst pipes during winter. That’s why it’s advisable to always keep your house warm, even when you are planning to head out of town. Make sure you turn on your thermostat and set the temperature at 55 degrees or above to prevent the risk of your pipes freezing.

Disconnect Outdoor Faucets

Outdoor faucets are often the first victims of freezing temperatures, especially if they are left connected during winter. If you leave water inside outdoor faucets, the water can freeze and expand, thereby increasing the risk of burst pipes. To prevent frozen pipes, make sure outside water valves are turned off. Also, disconnect outdoor hoses, drain any water from them, and store them inside.

Fix All Wall Cracks

One of the ways to keep your house warm and prevent cold air from getting inside is to fix all wall cracks. Seal off any wall cracks, crawl space vents, and spaces around your windows and doors to prevent cold air from entering your home and coming into contact with your pipes.

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