Preparing Your Home’s Plumbing for the Weather Change
As the weather changes, so too does your home’s plumbing. Different temperatures and humidity levels can cause unexpected plumbing issues that can lead to costly repairs. The good news is that you can be prepared for these weather-related plumbing issues by taking some preventative steps before they become a major problem. So, let’s take a look at the most common plumbing emergencies during weather change and how to prepare for them.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common plumbing problems in cold weather climates. When water freezes it expands, causing pressure to build up in your pipes which can cause them to burst or even break completely. One of the best ways to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate exposed pipes with foam insulation sleeves or tape. Doing this will keep your pipes from freezing and bursting due to cold temperatures.
Another way to help protect against frozen pipes is to make sure that any outside faucets are properly sealed and shut off when not in use. If you have any exterior spigots connected to an interior system, you should also check that they are drained during colder months when they are not being used. This will help ensure that no water will remain inside those pipes and freeze, causing damage or leakages down the road.
Leaking Pipes
Leaking pipes can be caused by a variety of things, but one of the main culprits is cold weather due to changes in temperature and humidity levels throughout different seasons. To prevent leaks from occurring in your home’s plumbing, you should regularly inspect all exposed piping for signs of corrosion or wear-and-tear, especially around joints or connections where corrosion tends to form faster than other areas. If you spot any leaks or signs of corrosion, it’s important that these are addressed as soon as possible – otherwise it could result in larger amounts of damage down the line if left unchecked for longer periods of time. Additionally, you should also check all joints and connections for any cracks or gaps that may allow water leakage over time – caulking these areas can help prevent future leaks from forming as well as reducing energy costs associated with running hot water through leaking fixtures!
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are another common issue associated with changing temperatures and humidity levels throughout different seasons; when heavy rains come through they can cause debris like leaves or sticks to clog up drainpipes leading into your home’s sewer system. To ensure your drains remain free-flowing throughout changing weather conditions, it’s important that you regularly inspect them for any blockages or buildup on their walls; using a snake tool once every couple months is recommended as well as investing in an outdoor drain cover or filter screen if needed (these devices will trap debris before entering your sewer system). Additionally, be sure not to pour grease down drains – this will quickly harden and create clogs within seconds!
Preparing your home’s plumbing for changing weather conditions doesn’t have to be complicated – taking just a few simple steps now could save you from costly repairs down the line! By inspecting exposed piping around joints/connections for any wear-and-tear/corrosion regularly; ensuring exterior faucets & spigots are properly sealed & shut off; installing insulation sleeves/tape around exposed piping; investing in an outdoor drain cover/filter screen; & avoiding pouring grease down drains – all go a long way towards protecting against potential plumbing emergencies during changing temperatures & humidity levels throughout different seasons! Being proactive now means less stress later on – so don’t forget these tips next time there’s a drastic shift in the climate!