3 Tips to Avoid Costly Winter Plumbing Leaks
A burst pipe is one of the most frustrating things that can happen to a homeowner in winter. However, most pipes don’t burst or leak without warning. There are signs you can look for and deal with before the problem gets too serious. To help prevent disaster during winter, here are three proven ways to avoid leaky pipes.
1. Clean Your Drains
One big reason why pipes burst is the buildup of grease and debris in shower and sink drains. If you haven’t cleaned out your drains in a while, then there may be a nasty clog that’s forcing more pressure onto your pipes, increasing the chances of a leak. If you see that your drains aren’t draining faster than the faucet or showerhead puts out water, then there’s probably a clog to clean.
2. Drain Your Water Heater
Most homeowners might not be aware that their water heaters should be drained once in a while. Certain water heaters build up sediment that can adversely impact your drinking water. Plus, it can be rough on the pipes it runs through to get to your faucet. Drain your water heater, break up any hard materials that have built up, flush it out, and then you should be good to go.
3. Disconnect Your Outdoor Hose
If you have a hose attached outside, then it likely has some water in it. This can be a huge problem as the water will freeze when temperatures get low enough. If it was only the hose itself that was in danger of breaking, then this wouldn’t be much of a concern, but the real problem lies in how the hose connects to your plumbing system. Frozen water in the hose can lead to frozen water in your pipes, greatly increasing the chances of a major leak.
If your pipes do start to leak, then it’s time to turn to the professionals at Obermanns in Jackson. We can help you get through the worst plumbing situations quickly, easily, and inexpensively. We also offer a full range of heating and cooling services. Call us today for more info about our service offerings.
