The winter can take a toll on your plumbing, leading to burst pipes, repairs, and other inconveniences. It’s essential to prepare your home for cold weather and take steps to insulate the plumbing pipes. Here are some ways to protect your plumbing this winter.
1. Insulate Pipes to Protect Your Plumbing in Winter
Plumbing pipes are vulnerable to freezing temperatures. One preventative measure is to wrap the pipes with insulation. You’ll find polyethylene pipe insulation online and in your local home improvement store. The insulation fits over pipes and can be secured with electrical tape or duct tape.
It’s advisable to use a heat cable with this insulation to make sure the pipes can endure extremely cold temperatures. Heat cables consist of a thermostat that detects pipe temperature. They turn the heat on and off as required to prevent the pipe from freezing. If you are unsure about how to install or use pipe insulation, consult a plumber.
2. Protect Your Plumbing by Winterizing the Faucets
Outdoor faucets are susceptible to the elements all through the year. Before winter hits, drain the garden hose and store it safely inside while it’s cold.
Also, shut off the water source that leads to your outdoor faucets and then turn on the faucet to drain it. This will help protect the pipe and faucet when it’s below freezing. You can purchase a cover to install over the faucet to further protect the water lines.
3. Keep the House Warm
Maintain a temperature of at least 55 degrees in your home, especially if the temperature outside will be below freezing. Even when you’re away, keep the house warm. On nights when temperatures will drop below 20 degrees, open cabinet doors that contain plumbing, such as beneath the kitchen and bathroom sinks. This will allow warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes and help to prevent freezing.
4. Set Up an Alert System
Another tip to help protect your plumbing is investing in a smart thermostat. This type of thermostat allows you to manage your home’s temperature using your phone. When the temperatures drop, you will receive a text alert to your smartphone. Using the smartphone you can adjust the thermostat and warm your home.
Another benefit of investing in a smart thermostat is saving on energy bills. Some homeowners save up to 25% by switching to a smart thermostat and using it to manage the interior temperature of the home.
Winter brings cold temperatures and icy weather that can have a devastating effect on your plumbing. Protect your plumbing to avoid burst pipes, leaks, and damage to your home.
Redtail Building Services offers inspection services in Southeastern Virginia. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to request an appointment.