As fall arrives, we are just getting a glance at the cold weather to come and the troubles that occur with extreme cold. To help you avoid those issues, here is a list of things you can do to help prevent needing a plumber and save you money this year.
- Keep yard drains, gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris to allow water drainage throughout the winter as it freezes and thaws.
- Disconnect all outside water hoses. If they stay connected in the winter, any left over water inside will freeze and expand causing inside faucets and connecting pipes to freeze and break.
- Check all outside hose bibs for any leaking or dipping and get fixed immediately before winter arrives. If you leave it, you risk water freezing and building pressure in your pipes and possibly breakage.
- If your home has interior shut-off valves leading to outside faucets, close them and drain any water from the outside lines.
- The winter months are especially hard on your water heater. To help elongate its life, flush it out and remove sediment build up. Drain several gallons from the faucet near the bottom of the tank. Connect a hose to it and direct the water to a nearby drain. If you have concerns about your specific make and model, check the manufacturer’s website for any specific instructions.
- If you are leaving a house for an extended time, shut off the main water valve and open faucets at the highest and lowest points of the house to drain all left over water. Then make sure the heat is set to 55F or above.
REMINDER: These are tips for houses that will be inhabited during the winter. If you are not staying in the house, remember to call Halpin Plumbing and set up an appointment to winterize your house in order to protect your plumbing.
