As winter hits Sturgeon Falls, many homeowners will have to prepare for potential damages that could be caused by plumbing system issues as snow and ice flood their homes. Pipes bursting, freezing, or leaking can severely compromise plumbing usage in no time. The following preventive measures will save you thousands of Dollars in repair and maintenance costs.
Here are some seasonal tips to avoid Sturgeon Falls plumbing issues for your home while keeping the pipes in good working condition:
1. Wrap Your Pipes In Insulation
Bundled-up pipes, such as those kept outdoors in the attic, basement or even placed in a small nook, are prone to cooling down to a temperature that causes them to freeze. To avoid this, outdoor hose bibs and kitchen sinks should be insulated with foam.
2. Set A Comfortable Temperature For The Room
For optimum energy preservation, install a thermostat that does not go below 12 degrees Celsius or 54 degrees Fahrenheit while away from home.
3. Let Your Faucets Drip During Bitter Cold Nights
To avoid pipes freezing solid at night, force your faucets to drip a little bit. Moving water is less likely to freeze.
4. Unplug Your Outdoor Hoses
If attached to an outdoor faucet, garden hoses produce water that fills the pipes, causing the water to freeze and the pipes to burst. This can severely damage your plumbing system.
Detach and store hoses for the season.
5. Seal Drafts Near Pipes
Cold air drafts can skewer pipes much quicker. Some plumbers conceal drafts in areas where they could interfere with the plumbing pipes, particularly those on exterior walls, using caulk or insulation.
6. Know the Location of Your Main Shut-Off Valve
If your line bursts, you can ease the water damage by turning it off quickly. Ensure every family member knows where the main shut-off valve is placed.
7. Maintain your Hot Water Heater
Remove any substance and other debris once every year from your water heater; this will boost its performance. Remember to check that it’s working properly before it freezes.
8. Open Cabinet Doors Under Sinks
Warm air accumulates and gushes around plumbing installed around a sink’s perimeter (especially those placed on exterior walls), which is why keeping cabinet doors open is advantageous.
9. Check for Leaks Regularly
Leaking could worsen even with a 5-degree Celsius freeze. That said, it is recommended to frequently check visible pipes and their connections for extraneous moisture or damage signs.
10. Call a Professional for Winter Plumbing Prep
If you’re not familiar with the plumbing setup in your house or if you notice something unusual, it’s better to contact a qualified plumber so that a winter inspection can be done properly.
Plumbing issues can become a major headache really soon. It is only natural that you will make sure that you don’t have to go through that hassle at any cost. Be prepared and keep your whole plumbing system prepared for a rough winter.
Conclusion
By taking these precautions, residents of Sturgeon Falls can enjoy a stress-free winter without stressing over burst pipes or freezing water lines. Whether alone or as part of a family, Sturgeon Falls folks should always be on the lookout for whatever can enhance their quality of life.
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