The time of the year has come around once more. As winter draws closer, it is imperative that you begin winterizing your plumbing system. You can save money on plumbing repairs and pipe system replacements because of this. You can also prevent further problems from happening, which can ruin the experience of being in the house during winter. So it’s always better to be cautious than sorry.
Here are a few pointers on how to get your plumbing ready for the colder months.
Preliminary Inspection of the Exterior
The first step is to go around your house. The goal is to locate any cracks and fill them with spray foam, caulk, or other types of insulation, as needed. This will shield your pipes from the elements, which is especially important during the winter. Furthermore, by glancing at the outside of the house, you may determine whether any further repairs are required.
Spot Any Leaks
To winterize your plumbing system, look for any leaks that may have developed in your pipe system. You may consider doing it yourself, but the most recommended route is to call professionals. They can repair the leaks immediately.
Because even small animals can cause your plumbing system to shut down when the temperature drops, it is critical that you keep an eye out for them. When the temperature drops, the water expands and damages weak spots, causing them to collapse. When that happens, damaged parts are inconvenient and expensive to fix or replace. As a result, if you take the time to examine for leaks, you can get peace of mind while saving yourself time and money.
Check Your Boiler
Check your boiler because you might be dealing with some common forms of damages, like leaks. When a boiler leak occurs, it is almost often due to a pressure valve or a pump seal. If the leak comes from the valve, the pressure in the system might have increased. If a problem with the pump seal causes the leak, the seal might be worn out.
Corrosion that has built around the pipes might be the source. There also might be a problem with how the system was put up. Seek the assistance of a qualified engineer to assist you in identifying and resolving this issue. Your specialist may propose that you replace your boiler if a problem causes the leak. Fortunately, you can always avail of reliable services for boiler breakdowns.
Make Sure the Pipes Are Insulated
You may begin insulating your pipes as early as fall before the temperatures drop for winter. As a result, the likelihood of your pipe system freezing and bursting during the coldest months of the year can be reduced, if not eliminated. Even wrapping or covering them with insulating foam is not enough to keep them warm.
It is recommended that heat cables be installed along the pipes to prevent them from being overwhelmed by freezing temperatures. This is because the insulation materials are not intended to endure extreme cold over an extended period. You need to make sure that warm air is not prevented from reaching the pipes. You can complete this task independently. But if you want to maintain quality maintenance or repair, hiring a professional is the best option.
Ensure the Furnace or HVAC Is in Top Condition
Do a simple assessment of your furnace or HVAC equipment. You can complete a preventative maintenance check and, if possible, avoid costly and time-consuming repairs. During this procedure, the safety switches on the furnace and its associated equipment should be examined. The burner should be cleaned to enhance the quality of the flame. You can also check the heat exchanger in the process.
Testing and tightening the electrical components of your HVAC unit, lubricating the motor, and examining the belts ensure that the unit continues to operate efficiently. If you have a central air conditioner, you might need to change the air filters and re-calibrate the thermostat at some time. You can follow tutorials to check the unit. But if the task gets complicated, it would be best to call a professional. Doing so can avoid causing further problems.
Preventative measures are easier and more affordable than full-blown repairs. That’s why it’s best to apply them to your plumbing system. Slacking off on maintenance can cause you and your family high utility bills and possible exposure to various diseases. Besides, the first step towards enjoying the winter is preparing for it. So winterize your plumbing system before the temperature drops.
