January 17, 2023
Freezing temperatures may be good for ice skating or building snowmen, but sub-freezing temperatures can be dangerous for the average person and his or her home. Keep reading to learn how to protect your plumbing during winter.
Cold weather often leaves people scurrying to do whatever is necessary to safeguard themselves from the big chill. But it’s also important for homeowners to protect their homes in cold weather.
Plumbing
Plumbing and pipes may be vulnerable to cold weather. Frozen pipes may burst and cause substantial damage to a home, potentially causing flooding and structural damage.
Homeowners should disconnect and drain garden hoses before winter arrives. Water to outdoor hose bibs should be turned off, though the valves on these outdoor faucets should be left open to drain. Also, outdoor faucets can be covered with insulating foam covers.
“Proper installation and insulation can prevent you from having a major problem on your hands with frozen or burst pipes,” says Zach H. of Superior Plumbing in Canandaigua NY. “If you have concerns or ongoing problems with frozen pipes, give us a call and we’ll be happy to take a look.”
The Red Cross says pipes that freeze most frequently include pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces. Close vents to the outside in areas like attics and basements to limit the amount of cold air that gets indoors. Think about insulating unheated areas, as well as using pipe sleeves, heat tape or wraps on exposed pipes.
By opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors, homeowners can allow warm air from a home to reach pipes under the sink. During extreme freezes, keep cold water dripping from a sink to prevent pipes from freezing.
“Prevention is the first line of defense. And if you do have an issue, Superior Plumbing in Canandaigua is here to help,” says Zach.
Protect outside
Drain birdbaths, clean out downspouts and remove water from other items where water can freeze and cause damage. Inspect roofing prior to the snowy season, but stay off roofs during freezing weather.
Remove snow shovels and other winter gear from storage and make sure the items are easily accessible during snowstorms.
“If you have concerns about whether the water systems in your home or business are protected from cold weather, give us a call or send us an email and we’ll be happy to discuss it with you any time” says Mike Z of Superior Plumbing.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your plumbing during winter.
Googling “plumbers near me”?
Skip the guesswork and call Superior Plumbing Service in Canandaigua at (585)905-0100