As the holiday spirit fills the air and temperatures drop, December marks the peak of winter. It's the season for cozy gatherings, festive decorations, and delightful celebrations. However, as you prepare for the holidays, your home's plumbing might be vulnerable to the challenges that winter brings. At Howze Plumbing, we want to ensure your December is merry and bright without the worry of plumbing issues. In this blog post, we'll navigate through potential winter plumbing problems and provide tips to keep your home's plumbing in top shape throughout the holiday season.
1. Guard Against Freezing Pipes
One of the most common winter plumbing nightmares is frozen pipes. When temperatures plummet, exposed pipes are at risk of freezing, leading to potential bursts and extensive water damage. Insulate pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces, to prevent freezing. Let faucets drip slightly during cold spells to keep water flowing, reducing the risk of freezing.
2. Mindful Use of the Garbage Disposal
With holiday feasts comes an abundance of cooking and meal preparations. Be cautious of what goes down your garbage disposal. Avoid disposing of fibrous or starchy foods, bones, and fats, as these can cause clogs and damage to your disposal. Run cold water before, during, and after use to help flush away debris.
3. Protect Your Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems
Protecting your outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems during winter is crucial. Before the chill sets in, detach and store garden hoses in a sheltered area to prevent freezing. Consider insulating outdoor faucets or using faucet covers available at hardware stores to shield them from the cold.
Additionally, for sprinkler systems, ensure they're properly drained and shut off before the first freeze. Turn off the water supply to the sprinklers and drain any remaining water from the system to prevent pipes from bursting when temperatures drop.
By safeguarding your outdoor plumbing fixtures and sprinkler systems, you can avoid costly damage and ensure they're ready for use when the warmer weather returns.
4. Water Heater Maintenance
Your water heater works overtime during winter to provide hot showers and warm water for household needs. Schedule a maintenance check to ensure your water heater is operating efficiently. Consider flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup, which can affect its performance.
5. Stay Aware of Leaks
Winter weather can exacerbate existing leaks or create new ones. Check for signs of leaks around sinks, toilets, and appliances. Even minor leaks can worsen in cold weather. Addressing leaks promptly can save you from larger issues later on.
6. Know Your Shut-Off Valve
In case of a plumbing emergency, it's crucial to know the location of your main shut-off valve. Familiarize everyone in your household with its location, as shutting off the water supply quickly can prevent extensive water damage in emergencies.
December is a time of joy and celebration, but it's also a season that requires attention to your home's plumbing. By taking proactive measures and staying vigilant, you can prevent potential plumbing disasters and enjoy a worry-free holiday season. Should you encounter any plumbing issues or require professional assistance, our expert team at Howze Plumbing is here to ensure your holidays remain cheerful and stress-free.
For any plumbing concerns or questions, reach out to us at 817-577-0922. Wishing you a joyful and plumbing-trouble-free December!