Maintaining Your Plumbing System: Tips for Preventing Issues in Winter
Stay ahead of potential plumbing problems during winter by performing regular maintenance checks on your system. Inspect pipes for leaks, drips, and water pressure issues to catch any problems early on.
As winter approaches, preventing water from freezing in your pipes is crucial to avoid plumbing disasters. Here are some expert tips:
1. Insulate exposed pipes
Wrap any exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages and attics with pipe insulation sleeves, heat tape, or heat cables. This helps to maintain the temperature of the pipes above freezing.
2. Seal air leaks
Check for air leaks around pipes, especially in areas where cold air can seep in, such as windows, doors, and utility openings. Seal these gaps with caulk or insulation to prevent cold air from reaching the pipes.
3. Keep interior temperatures consistent
To prevent freezing, keep your thermostat set to a minimum temperature of no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius) and maintain a consistent temperature throughout your house–even when you’re away.
4. Open cabinet doors
In cold areas beneath sinks or near exterior walls, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
5. Let faucets drip
When it’s getting extremely cold outside, allow faucets connected to vulnerable pipes to drip slightly. The flow of water helps relieve pressure and prevent the pipes from freezing.
6. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses
Before winter starts, disconnect any garden hoses from outdoor faucets. Drain the hoses and store them indoors. Close the shut-off valve to the outdoor faucet, and then open the faucet to drain any remaining water from the pipe.
7. Shut off exterior water supply
If you have a separate shut-off valve for your exterior water supply, turn it off and drain the remaining water from the pipes. This can help prevent freezing and potential damage to the plumbing system.
8. Use heating tape or cables
For vulnerable pipes that are prone to freezing despite insulation, consider using heating tape or cables. These devices provide heat directly to the pipes and can be controlled with a thermostat to maintain a safe temperature.
9. Hire a professional plumber
If you’re unsure about how to winterise your plumbing system properly, it’s a good idea to consult a professional plumber from Unitech SA. They can assess your system and provide personalised advice based on your home’s setup.
