When the seasons change, there is plenty to get done. Summer clothes get pushed to the back of the closet and water toys go back into storage as the snowboards and Skidoos come out. The yard and decks need winterizing, too; but what about your plumbing?
Forgetting to properly winterize your plumbing can lead to disaster right in the middle of the coldest season, not to mention it can be quite pricey. Following a few simple steps will ensure that your home is safe and warm all winter long.
Outside sources of running water should be turned off for the entire season. This means any outdoor sinks, (in the garden or outdoor kitchen, for example), showers, or sprinklers. After turning them off, make sure to drain the lines. When water freezes, it expands which could cause the pipe to burst or the line to crack. Any minor cracks that are already present can be made much worse if the line is not drained properly. If you have any interior valves leading to outdoor faucets, be sure to turn those off as well. Drain and store garden hoses in a garage or shed. If your pipe does happen to burst, be sure to call Blue Sea Plumbing for plumbing services in Langley.
Locate your main water valve and know how to turn it off. When a pipe bursts, the longer water flows, the more expensive the damage will be to repair. Make sure that you have easy access to your main water valve in the event you need to turn the water off. Teach everyone you live with how to turn them off as well. Additionally, it’s a good idea to know where individual water valves are (like for the bathroom sink or shower) and how to turn them off. Keep the area leading to the valves clear of tripping hazards and shelving to allow for easy access. Valves are typically located underneath sinks or behind appliances that use a lot of water like washing machines.
Look for signs of water leakage throughout your home. Some indications of leaks are mold, dampness, foul smell, puddles, dark spots on the floor or walls, and taps with low water pressure. Reach out to your local plumber if you suspect a leak and they will be able to come and do a full inspection and determine if and where the leak is and if it is repairable before further damage is caused. For plumbing services in Langley or nearby, call Blue Sea Plumbing.
If you live in a house with a basement and/or an attic, make sure to pay extra close attention when inspecting these areas for leaks or signs of water damage. In rooms that are rarely visited, it can be easy for relatively minor leaks to go undetected for long periods. A flooded basement or a leaky ceiling indicates that damage has been done and that repairing may be very expensive. A simple thorough inspection can save you thousands of dollars down the line. Look for the same signs of water damage (leaks, dampness, etc) but be sure to have adequate lighting and consider using matches or candles to locate any possible air leaks in the foundation or the roof. Cold air coming into the space can also affect the pipes.
Don’t make the mistake of leaving your pipes vulnerable to cold winters. Inspect in order to prevent.
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