As summer ends and we fall into colder months, you and your family might begin to make your plans for the Holidays. The last thing on your mind is your plumbing, but the plumbing experts at Duran & Sons Universal Plumbing & Rooter want to provide you with the information you need to prepare your plumbing for the colder winter months, so you don’t face an emergency during Thanksgiving dinner.
1. Inspect Your Pipes for Leaks
Leaks can be extremely disastrous if left unchecked through the winter months. A small leak my not seem like a big deal during the spring and summer seasons, but it can cause the pipe to burst if the water inside the pump freezes. This is because the water expands during the freezing process. The expanded water causes an increase of pressure, which then causes the pipe to burst.
2. Insulate Pipes
For the pipes that are exposed in the attic, garage or another outside area, consider insulating them. This preventative maintenance is relatively inexpensive and can save you from the costly plumbing repairs down the road. There are a number of pipe insulation options ranging from copper pipe insulation to Armaflex, to wrap-on thermal tape.
3. Shut Off Outdoor Faucets
If your property features an outdoor faucet or hose, consider draining them of their way and then shutting them down. Depending on how cold it gets in your area, you may want to consider turning off the main water supply of these faucets during the winter. If your home has a swimming pool, consider having the swimming pool system checked for any issues that should be addressed before winter.
4. Open Kitchen Cupboard Doors
As it gets colder, consider opening up your cabinets so the warm air from your heater can circulate through any exposed pipes.
5. Winterize Your Swamp Cooler
Winter is coming and swamp coolers, also known as evaporative coolers, will need to be winterized before it gets too cold. Begin this process by first disconnecting the water line, then draining any water from the unit. You may want to use this opportunity to clean the swamp cooler and change the pads. Once this is finished, install a swamp cooler cover to protect the unit during the winter months and cover the vent to prevent outside cool air from blowing into the house.
Got an Emergency? We’re Here to Help!
While we hope you don’t have to experience a plumbing emergency during your holiday season, our San Fernando Valley plumbers are ready to help in an emergency. We understand plumbing emergencies happen 24/7, which is why you can call us any time of the night if you have a problem. At Duran & Sons Universal Plumbing & Rooter, we have been reliably servicing the San Fernando, Sylmar, Santa Clarita, Beverly Hills, Bel Air and West LA areas for over 25 years.
Call our San Fernando Valley plumber today! (818) 946-0545