In Illinois, we know that the Fall season is the time to prepare for those freezing months ahead. As part of that preparation, you need to take extra precaution with your pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting.
Unfortunately, cold, freezing weather can do a lot of damage to your home, including your outdoor appliances, taps and indoor plumbing. That’s where we come in! We’re here to help you take the necessary, preventive measures, now, so that when that mercury drops, you and your home will be safe from the elements. Here are seven ways that you can prepare your home’s plumbing for the soon-to-be freezing temperatures:
Get Your Pipes Inspected
Don’t wait until after the first freeze, get your plumbing inspected for leaks before there is a problem. Leaking pipes can lead to all sorts of issues and headaches down the road. As the temperature drops, even the smallest leak can cause a pipe to burst as the water inside freezes and swells. Have a professional check for leaks in even the most hard to reach places, like in attics and crawlspaces.
Insulate Your Pipes
Just as your house is insulated, insulating your pipes will help keep them warm throughout the colder months so that they don’t freeze. You can get a professional to do this, or you can do it yourself. All you have to do is go to any local hardware store and get pipe insulation to cover all exposed pipes as well as those in open spaces. This includes those found in closets, under sinks, attics, basements and garages where they are especially vulnerable because they’re surrounded by cold air.
Turn off Outdoor Faucets
Though often overlooked, your cold weather preparation should include checking all outdoor taps, garden hoses, cooling units, sprinkler systems and even pools. You’ll want to drain and turn off all outside faucets, taps, hoses and appliances, as these can cause major issues if frozen. You may even want to turn off their water supply, completely.
Keep Your House Warm
Once the temperature drops, you need to keep your thermostats set to a warmer temperature so that all of your pipes stay nice and warm, even when you’re not at home. It’s best to keep the heater on a timer.
Open Your Cupboards
When the temperature drops outside, open your cupboard doors so that the warm air can circulate around your pipes. You’ll want to do this wherever you have exposed pipes, like in your bathroom, kitchen, closets, and even to your attic or basement.
Close Your Garage Door
Any exposed pipes in your garage will stay warmer with the door closed. With it closed, you can more easily maintain a higher temperature, within, so that pips don’t freeze.
It’s always best to prepare sooner rather than later. Don’t let winter set in without taking preventative measures to secure your home.
If, even with these preventive measures, you find yourself with a suspected or frozen pipe issue, contact our team at Tritan Plumbing. As we’re long-familiar with the freezing months, here in Illinois, we know how to best deal with these situations and are the professionals you can count on to prevent further damage.
