Preparing Your Plumbing for Winter: Tips & Maintenance

There’s no denying it: the winter weather in Rochester, NY, can be brutal. Frigid temperatures, icy conditions, and heavy snowfall are all par for the course. These conditions can wreak havoc on your home, especially your plumbing system. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prepare your plumbing system for winter and prevent costly repairs. Here are some practical advice and maintenance tips to help homeowners prepare their plumbing systems for the challenges of Rochester’s winter weather.

Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs and inconvenience. Don't wait until it's too late! Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing for professional frozen pipe repair. Our expert technicians are ready to assist you and ensure your plumbing system stays in top shape throughout the winter season.

Insulate Your Pipes

Insulating your pipes is a crucial step in preventing them from freezing during the winter season. You can purchase foam pipe insulation or heat tape at your local hardware store to protect your pipes. Make sure to cover all the pipes in exposed areas, including those in the basement, crawl space, or attic. Hot water pipes should also be insulated to prevent heat loss, reduce energy bills, and prevent scalding.

Seal All Cracks and Leaks

Sealing all cracks and leaks in your home is a simple and cost-effective way to keep the cold air out and maintain a warmer temperature inside your home. Common areas that need sealing include windows, doors, electrical outlets, ceiling fixtures, and pipes entering your home. You can use weather stripping, caulking, or foam sealant to seal these gaps and prevent drafts. Proper sealing not only helps keep your home comfortable during the winter months, but it also reduces your energy bills and improves your home's energy efficiency.

Drain Your Outdoor Faucets

Draining your outdoor faucets before winter arrives is essential to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Disconnect your garden hose from the outdoor faucet and open the tap to let any remaining water drain out. If your outdoor faucet has a shut-off valve, turn it off and leave the tap open to let the remaining water drain out. Remember to remove any water from sprinkler systems, swimming pools, and outdoor fountains as well.

Keep Your Home Warm

Keeping your home warm throughout the winter season is crucial to prevent frozen pipes. Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain a consistent temperature inside your home. You can also use a programmable thermostat to save energy and control your heating system better. If you notice any cold spots in your home, use space heaters or extra insulation to keep the area warm.

Consider Adding A Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat is a useful addition to your home that can help regulate your home's temperature more efficiently. You can control your thermostat remotely using your smartphone, and it can learn your schedule and adjust the temperature accordingly. Smart thermostats can also help you save money and energy by reducing your heating bills and optimizing your home's energy use. Check out this list of highly reviewed smart thermostats from BestReviews!

Additional Tips

• Install a backup generator to ensure you have power in case of power outages due to winter storms
• Know where the main water valve is located in case a pipe bursts
• Ensure your hot water heater is in proper working order
• Leave your faucet on a steady drip during a cold snap

My Pipes Are Frozen. Now What?

Don’t panic! If you take immediate action, long-term damage can be avoided. First, turn off the water supply to your home or the specific frozen pipe. This will stop the flow of water and prevent further damage. Next, open all faucets connected to the frozen pipe to relieve pressure and provide an escape route for melting water. To thaw the pipe, it's important to apply heat carefully. Use methods such as wrapping the pipe with warm towels, using a hairdryer on low heat, or placing a heating pad or heat lamp near the pipe. Never use open flame or high-temperature heat sources as they can be dangerous.

Hire a Professional

If you are unsure about how to prepare your plumbing system for winter, or if you don’t have the time or tools to do it yourself, consider hiring a professional. A licensed plumber can inspect your plumbing system and make any necessary repairs or upgrades to ensure it is ready for winter.