Home Winterization Methods To Prevent Plumbing System Damage

The extremely low temperatures during winter can cause many plumbing problems. Examples include frozen pipes, burst pipes caused by freezing water, clogged drains, and low water heater performance. Therefore, homeowners need to get professional help to winterize their homes and prevent these issues. Here are home winterization methods that can help preserve your plumbing systems.

Turn on Faucets

You need to close the main valve in your home to prevent water from flowing into the pipes as it can freeze. However, you should turn on the faucets and let any water leaking from the main valve to flow out. If you close the faucet valve, water might turn into ice in the pipe.

Insulate the Pipes

You can use wraps, slip-on foam, or any other effective insulator to shelter your pipes. If your region experiences extremely low temperatures during winter, you should add extra layers of insulation. For instance, you can cover your pipes with heat-tape wraps and then add the insulation.

After insulating, inspect all pipes to ensure no cracks that can allow cold air in. It is advisable to get help from a plumber because some pipes can be hard to reach. The plumbing contractors have the right tools and expertise to ensure no crack goes unnoticed.

Heat Your Home

During winter, you should try to heat your home frequently. For example, you can let the heater run the whole day to keep the indoor pipes warm. The heating source will supply warm air in the house, and thus protect the pipes from freezing.

Remember to leave the kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors open so that the heat can reach the pipes behind the walls. Also, close the garage door to block cold air from penetrating to the main house.

Seal Any Cracks

It is vital to seal cracks that allow cold air to leak into your house. This includes cracks on the walls, doors, and windows. Also, hire a plumber to inspect the water supply system and repair broken pipes and the drains to prevent further damage when the cold season kicks in.

Take Care of the Hose Bibs

You should not forget to disconnect your garden hoses and sprinklers to prevent ice buildup.  Once you disconnect the hoses, turn off the shut-off valve, and drain water from the hose bib. It's advisable to leave your hose bib on so that water can escape if the main valve leaks.

You also need to hire a plumbing contractor to insulate the hose bib using covers to protect them from freezing. Plumbers typically use a frost-free hose bib, which is highly tolerant of cold temperatures.

Home winterization services can save you from repair costs that many homeowners incur after winter. Make sure you hire competent plumbers and apply these tips to protect your plumbing systems from winter damages.