It's that time of year again in Texas! The temperatures are finally cooling down, and the fall season is here. With the winter months ahead, it's vital to make sure your home or office plumbing is ready to withstand the changing weather. When the temperature drops, unprepared plumbing systems can experience increased clogs, damaged pipes, or even flooding.
At Howze Plumbing, we're dedicated to ensuring our customers have all the information they need to prepare their pipes for the colder months. Check out this quick list of five important tips to keep in mind as you get your plumbing ready for fall and winter.
1. Tackle Those Troublesome Leaks
As you start prepping your plumbing for the colder months, one of your first tasks should be addressing any existing leaks in your system.
During the hot Texas summer, a minor faucet drip might not seem like a big deal, but when the cooler weather arrives, even the smallest leaks can turn into significant issues.
Leaky pipes are often indicative of weak points in your plumbing. In colder temperatures, water in your pipes naturally expands, and in these vulnerable spots, this pressure increase can lead to pipe bursts.
Dealing with burst pipes is not only inconvenient but can also be quite costly. Investing in professional repairs for even minor leaks now can save you time, money, and headaches during the already busy winter season.
2. Winterize Outdoor Faucets
Outdoor garden faucets and hose spigots are handy during the Texas summer, but they become less necessary in the winter months.
Forgetting to turn off water access to outdoor faucets can result in severe damage if these outdoor pipes freeze. To avoid this, disconnect and store hoses and other outdoor water equipment for the winter.
Be sure to fully drain any water from these exposed outdoor pipes to prevent freezing. The best way to do this is by shutting off the main water supply to these specific faucets for the season.
3. Know Your Water Main
In case of a pipe burst during the colder season, it's crucial to be prepared. The first step is to locate your home or office's water main.
The water main is your primary access point to your town's water or well system. Knowing its exact location in advance ensures that you can quickly cut off water access in emergencies, minimizing potential damage while awaiting repairs.
Additionally, consider shutting off your building's water access if you plan to be away for extended periods during winter. This precaution can prevent the risk of frozen or burst pipes altogether.
4. Check Your Water Heater
Your water heater plays a critical role in the colder months, especially when you're seeking a warm shower on a chilly Texas morning.
Before the frigid temperatures arrive, it's wise to have a professional plumber inspect your water heater to ensure it's operating efficiently. At Howze Plumbing, we're here to evaluate your water heater and perform any necessary repairs or part replacements, ensuring you have warm water all winter. If you have an older unit, it might be a good time to consider an upgrade to a more energy-efficient model.
Did you know that you might have the option to raise or cap your water temperature for energy efficiency and safety? We can help you with that too.
5. Insulate Your Pipes
Repairing burst pipes can be costly and time-consuming, with average repair costs exceeding $1,000, not to mention potential flooding damage.
The best way to prevent frozen and burst pipes is proper insulation. Wrap your pipes with materials like insulation foam to keep them warm and protected.
At Howze Plumbing, our experienced plumbers are ready to assist you in fully preparing your pipes for the upcoming cold weather season. We're committed to providing top-notch service!
Conclusion
Don't wait until winter hits; start preparing your plumbing system today. Howze Plumbing is here to help you with all your plumbing needs, including fixing those pesky leaks. Contact us now to schedule a professional inspection and address any plumbing concerns before they turn into winter disasters.
For any plumbing questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to us at (817) 442-6172. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We look forward to serving your plumbing needs!