As the winter holiday season approaches, it’s important to take steps to protect your plumbing in the San Gabriel Valley. Cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to costly repairs and water damage. Here are some plumbing tips to help prevent plumbing issues in the San Gabriel Valley:
Insulate pipes: Exposed pipes are more likely to freeze in cold weather. Insulate pipes in unheated areas such as basements and attics to help prevent freezing. Make sure to use proper insulation materials, as some materials can cause pipes to corrode. You can purchase pre-slit foam pipe insulation at your local hardware store or wrap pipes with heating tape.
Disconnect hoses: Disconnect all outdoor hoses and store them inside to prevent freezing. This will also help protect your outdoor faucets from freezing and bursting. If you have an in-ground sprinkler system, consider draining it before the first frost. If you have an outdoor pool or spa, make sure to winterize it by properly draining and covering it.
Keep the heat on: If you’re going away for an extended period of time, make sure you keep the heat on in your home. Set the thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent pipes from freezing. If you have a vacation home that you don’t visit often, consider leaving the heat on at a low temperature to help prevent freezing pipes.
Know how to shut off the water: In the event of a pipe burst, you’ll need to shut off the main water supply to your home. Make sure you know where the main shut-off valve is located and how to use it. It’s also a good idea to locate the shut-off valves for each appliance and fixture in your home, such as the washing machine, dishwasher, and toilet. If you’re going away for an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to shut off the water supply to appliances that aren’t being used, such as the washing machine and dishwasher.
Fix any leaks: If you have any plumbing leaks, it’s important to fix them before the cold weather hits. Leaks can worsen in cold weather, leading to more serious issues. If you’re not sure how to fix a leak, it’s a good idea to hire a professional plumber.
Protect outdoor pipes: If you have outdoor pipes that are not used during the winter, consider draining them and covering them with insulation to help prevent freezing. Make sure to also insulate any outdoor faucets to help prevent them from freezing. If you have an irrigation system, make sure to blow out the lines to remove any excess water before the first frost.
Keep cabinet doors open: If you have pipes in cabinets, keep the cabinet doors open during cold weather. This allows warmer air to circulate around the pipes, helping to prevent freezing.
Keep a slow trickle of water flowing: If you’re worried about your pipes freezing, you can keep a slow trickle of water flowing through them. This can help prevent freezing by keeping the water moving.
Seal cracks and gaps: Make sure to seal any cracks or gaps in your foundation or walls to help prevent cold air from entering your home and causing pipes to freeze.
Install a programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat can help you save money on your energy bills by allowing you to set the temperature to automatically drop when you’re not home. This can also help prevent pipes from freezing while you’re away.
By following these tips, you can help prevent plumbing issues during the winter holiday season in the San Gabriel Valley. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for the unexpected, so make sure to have the contact information for a reliable plumbing company on hand in case you do experience any issues.
