Wintertime Plumbing Tips: Preventing Your Pipes From Freezing

Winter is beginning to slowly release its icy grip on our household, and the temperature has started to rise. Homeowners must already plan as early as now what needs to be done to protect their plumbing from the perils of freezing weather by year’s end. We have probably learned a few valuable lessons in the past few months.

Mason plumbers have this to say on the matter. In a nutshell, frozen pipes cause costly water damage that disrupts daily life and causes frustration among us. We’ll look at some vital plumbing advice to help you get through winter without worrying about plumbing issues:

1. Insulate Your Pipes

One of the most efficient ways to safeguard our plumbing during the cold winter months is to insulate the pipes. Exposed pipes are more likely to freeze, but insulating them with foam or other appropriate materials can create a barrier against the cold. Focus on pipes in unheated locations, including basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

2. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Cold air penetration can be a serious problem for your plumbing. Examine your house for punctures or slits in the walls, windows, and doors. Seal them to keep drafts out. Decreasing cold air penetration reduces the chance of pipes freezing and becoming out of order. Weather stripping and caulking are great ways to fill gaps.

3. Maintain a Constant Temperature

Keep your thermostat set to a steady temperature throughout the day and night. Sudden dips in temperature, particularly at night, might increase the danger of frozen pipes. To keep your pipes in good working order, keep the temperature in your home at or above 55 degrees Fahrenheit or 13 degrees Celsius.

4. Drip Your Faucets

Here’s a tip that’s so simple you might forget about it when winter comes. According to plumbing services in Mason, OH, allowing a small, consistent leak from your faucets will keep the pipes from freezing. Running water, even a trickle, can relieve pressure in the pipes, lowering the probability of their icing up.

5. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Outdoor hoses and faucets are understandably vulnerable to freezing conditions. Before the cold months set in, disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses, and turn off the water supply to external taps. Leaving those hoses connected may cause water to back up into the pipes and increase the risk of freezing.

6. Invest in Pipe Heating Cable

Lastly, consider employing a pipe heating cable for weak pipelines. Those who live in generally freezing climates should take this advice seriously. These wires are wrapped around the pipes, providing a mild, steady heat to help them avoid getting frozen. Installation is simple, and these cables will be a great help.

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Take Away

While winter is still a good distance away, plan to take measures to safeguard your plumbing as early as now. Ask the Mason plumbers who are knowledgeable in such matters, and they’ll say it’s critical to insulate pipes, plug drafts, maintain the temperature indoors, and allow the tap to drip a bit, as this is good for plumbing.

Call us at Joseph Home Improvement and Plumbing at 513-400-6401 to winter-proof your plumbing. We do home remodeling as well.