Plumbing Maintenance For the Colder Months

We all know that when the air gets a slight chill and the rain turns cool, colder weather is ahead. This colder season can wreak havoc on your plumbing systems if you do not take the appropriate actions to prevent it from doing so.

Some things are very easy to do yourself to ensure your home does not suffer from the winter blues. Be sure any outside faucets are not leaking, this water can freeze and cause damage and headaches. Be sure you do not leave any hoses connected to outdoor faucets as well. Make sure there is not any water left in any outdoor lines - freezing pipes are perhaps one of the most expensive repairs due to winter problems.

Cover outdoor pipes with some type of insulation to prevent freezing. Such insulation includes items such as thermal tapes and heat cables. Seal up your doors and windows to prevent drafts (which is also a great energy savings too!) Be sure to give your water heater a good check-up before the cold weather strikes. It works harder during the winter months and you certainly do not want it to be breaking in the dead of winter! Be sure to keep leaves free from drainage pipes to ensure a smooth flow when things thaw out in the spring.

Take these steps to help prevent any costly damage to your plumbing system this fall and winter season. When springtime rolls around and you got through a winter without any plumbing problems, you will certainly thank yourself.

Harold Sterling knows a thing or two about house upkeep and maintenance. His father was a celebrated plumber, and taught him core plumbing skills when he was growing up. Cold winter months can be dreadful to plumbing in a house, so install and use the best pipes and fittings for your home.