When it comes to preparing your plumbing for winter, you don't want to be left out in the cold. At Ragsdale, we can help you with all your seasonal plumbing maintenance needs. Below are five quick and easy ways to get your plumbing ready for cold months.
- Check for Leaks
Now is the time to look for any plumbing leaks around your home. Check faucets and shower heads and take note of any low water pressure. If you see any leaks, call a professional to repair them right away. Even small leaks add up quickly, wasting precious water as well as money.
- Disconnect Your Outdoor Hose
When the temperature drops, hoses are the first victims. One of the most important plumbing maintenance tasks this time of year is disconnecting and storing any outdoor hoses to prevent freezing. This also helps protect pipes inside your home. Try to do this ahead of time so your hose is safely stores before the first wave of cold temperatures. Also, during the freezing temperatures, it is a good idea to locate the shutoff valves for outside faucets and turn those off.
- Have Your Pipes Inspected
If you've never inspected your pipes before, a professional plumber can check them to make sure that they are in tiptop shape for the winter months. They can also prevent pipes from bursting by insulating them to protect your home and replacing them if they are faulty. Bursting pipes can be devastating to a homeowner.
- Keep Your Home Warm
This tip may seem simple, but cool indoor temperatures can be the biggest cause of pipes bursting in the home. Check to see that your thermostat is set and activated, and make sure that the temperature in your home does not drop below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Take Care of Your Sinks
Using a sink as a garbage disposal can be problematic. Particularly during winter, oils and fats poured down the drain can freeze once temperatures drop. This can clog your drains and cause more problems. Be sure to dispose of grease properly to keep your pipes clear and be ready for the big chill.
If you want a hand with your plumbing maintenance tasks this year, the experts at Ragsdale are happy to help. We serve the Atlanta metro area with expert plumbing maintenance, repair and installation.
