As the winter months approach, it is important to take steps to protect your plumbing system from potential damage caused by freezing temperatures. Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs and inconvenience, so it is crucial to be proactive in preventing this issue.

One of the first things you can do to protect your plumbing system during winter is to insulate any exposed pipes. This includes pipes in basements, crawl spaces, attics, and outside walls. Insulating these pipes will help prevent them from freezing when the temperature drops. You can use foam insulation sleeves or wrapping tape to cover the pipes and keep them warm.

Another important step is to disconnect any outdoor hoses and drain water from outdoor faucets. Leaving hoses connected can cause water to back up into the faucet and freeze, leading to burst pipes. Make sure all outdoor spigots are turned off and drained before the cold weather sets in.

It is also a good idea to keep your home heated evenly throughout the winter months. Cold spots in your home can lead to frozen pipes, so make sure all rooms are adequately heated. Opening cabinet doors under sinks can also help warm air circulate around pipes located there.

If you plan on going away for an extended period during the winter, consider leaving your heat on at a low temperature (around 55 degrees Fahrenheit) while you are gone. This will help prevent frozen pipes while still saving energy costs.

In extremely cold weather conditions, letting faucets drip slightly can help prevent freezing. Running water through the pipes helps prevent ice buildup that could lead to blockages or bursts.

If despite taking precautions you find yourself with frozen pipes, there are steps you can take to thaw them safely. Use a hairdryer or space heater on low setting directed at the affected pipe until water starts flowing again. Never use an open flame or high heat source as this could damage the pipe or even start a fire.

In conclusion, protecting your plumbing orangevale system during winter is essential for avoiding costly repairs and inconvenience due to frozen pipes. By insulating exposed pipes, disconnecting outdoor hoses, keeping your home heated evenly, and taking precautions when leaving town for extended periods of time, you can ensure that your plumbing system remains functional throughout the colder months ahead.

Evans Plumbing and Sewer Inc
8241 Oakenshaw Way, Orangevale, CA, 95662
916-702-3539