The freezing temperatures of winter can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system. Cold weather puts water lines in danger of bursting, leading to costly repairs. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps homeowners can take to protect the pipes during the cold season. Here’s what you need to know to prepare your plumbing for winter weather.
Check the Plumbing to Prepare for Winter
To prevent frozen pipes, check all exposed plumbing inside and outside your home for signs of wear and tear. If you detect cracks or leaks, repair them as soon as possible before water damage becomes a significant problem. A professional plumber can inspect the pipes for issues and make necessary repairs.
Insulate Your Pipes
To protect your plumbing from freezing temperatures, insulate exposed pipes with foam insulation sleeves or pipe wraps. These products are easy-to-use and widely available at most hardware stores, making them an affordable option for insulation. Check the pipes throughout the season to make sure they are still covered and protected.
In especially cold areas, install heat tape. Heat tape, also known as heat cable or heating wire, is an electrical insulation wrapped around water pipes that produces heat to prevent ice from forming in the line. Heat tape helps water flow freely, even at extremely low temperatures.
Installing heat tape is easy and can be done with minimal tools, making it an economical solution for any homeowner looking to protect their pipes this winter season.
Drain Outdoor Water Sources
Drain outdoor water sources like hoses or sprinkler systems before the temperature drops below freezing. Draining the water will prevent these sources from cracking due to ice expansion, saving you money by avoiding expensive repairs or replacements. Turn off water supply valves leading into these sources as an additional safety measure against frozen pipes.
Prepare Your Plumbing for Winter: Open Cabinet Doors
On nights when the temperature is expected to drop below freezing, open the cabinet doors. This simple action will help protect against frozen pipes by allowing warm air to circulate around them.
Winterizing your plumbing is essential in preparing for cold weather conditions each year. Taking precautions ahead of time will help avoid costly repairs due to frozen or burst pipes during extreme cold snaps. Check exposed pipes for wear and tear, insulate them with foam insulation sleeves, and drain outdoor water sources before frigid temperatures hit your area. With these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way toward protecting your home’s plumbing this winter season.
Homeworx Services Inc. provides inspection services to home buyers and sellers in Northern Virginia. Contact us to request an appointment.