Tips For Winterizing Your Plumbing

As the cool weather creeps in, it is important that you start thinking about winterizing your plumbing. If your pipes freeze, the immense pressure that builds up from an ice blockage can cause massive water damage. Every homeowner should know how to properly prepare their pipes for the impending cold air. Here are a few tips on winterizing your plumbing.

How to Winterize Plumbing

Winterizing With Pipe Insulation

The most common way of winterizing your plumbing is by insulating the pipes that are exposed to the colder air. Pay attention to pipes located in unheated parts of your home such as the basement or garage. Place insulation around the pipes before the weather gets too cold. You can purchase insulation tubes made of polyethylene or fiberglass. If you are in a real bind and need quick insulation, crumbled newspaper and duct tape can be a temporary option.

Opening Your Cabinets

Before you go to bed, open all your sink-based cabinet doors. This will allow heat to move closer to the wall and as a result this may keep your pipes from freezing and bursting.

Fix Any Exterior Cracks

If you notice that you have any exterior cracks on your home you will need to fill these with spray insulation before the freezing weather hits. This will keep the cold air from coming in contact with the pipes inside your walls.

Sealing Crawl Spaces

During extremely cold weather you will need to temporarily cover any ventilated crawl spaces. Doing this will reduce the amount of cold air that the plumbing is exposed to, therefore reducing the possibility of frozen pipes. Use heavy duty cardboard to cut and fit the vents and tape them in place with duct tape.

For more information on winterizing your plumbing, contact Ready & Able. Call (717) 963-2034 to schedule your appointment today.

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