Water is the lifeblood of a home, responsible for everything from flushing toilets to washing dishes. Yet when freezing temperatures hit, homeowners often neglect their plumbing, which allows water to freeze inside the system. This circumstance can lead to many problems, including burst pipes, water damage, and expensive repair bills. Therefore, take the proper steps to prepare your plumbing for winter: insulate pipes, shut off outdoor faucets, run water, and more. Also, seek expert help winterizing your water line.
Hicks Plumbing is a full-service plumbing company operating in Springfield, VA. During the past 30+ years, we’ve built an outstanding reputation for quality craftsmanship. We offer simple repairs, complete replacements, and 24/7 emergency plumbing service, so you can rest assured we’ll be there when you need us. For licensed, certified, and trustworthy plumbing, contact us at (703) 803-7466.
Below, we outline several ways you can prepare your water line for winter:
Insulate Your Pipes
One of the best ways to prepare your plumbing for cold weather is to insulate your pipes. Unheated indoor areas—like your garage, attic, or crawl space—and the pipes that run through them can drop to freezing temperatures. However, insulation can combat this effect and prevent malfunctioning faucets, water line leaks, and costly repairs. Professionals can also wrap your pipes in heat cable and create a barrier that retains heat and avoids freezing.
Shut Off Your Outdoor Faucets
If you don’t drain and shut off your outdoor faucets, the pipes can freeze and burst when temperatures drop below freezing. Even if you have frost-proof faucets, remember to drain the bleeder cap and turn the shutoff valve, as ice can build up in the spigot and damage the mechanism. Before winter sets in, give your faucets a little attention to avoid issues down the road.
Leave the Water Running
When temperatures dip below freezing, allow your water to run. By allowing a small stream, or even a slow drip, of water to flow through your faucet, you can help prevent the pipes from freezing over. By releasing pressure, moving water helps keep temperatures inside the pipes above freezing, even if the air around them remains cold. Although you may encounter a slightly higher water bill, it’s worth avoiding costly plumbing repairs.
Expose Your Pipes to Warm Air
Another way to avoid freezing pipes, expose them to warm air. Of course, this means ensuring your heating system is functioning and prepared for the cold winter ahead. Also, assuming your heat pump or furnace system works, try opening up cabinets, such as those in the kitchen and bathroom. By allowing the heat in your home to reach the pipes, you can prevent them from freezing.
Professional Winter Prep for Water Lines in Springfield, VA
At Hicks Plumbing, we understand the importance of protecting your home from the cold winter weather. That’s why we offer a comprehensive water line winterization service to homeowners in and around Springfield, VA. Let us ensure your pipes are insulated and adapted to the impending cold temperatures. Contact us today at (703) 803-7466 to request a service.