Are you looking for ways to help protect your plumbing this winter? Harsh weather and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. Here are a few plumbing tips from Streamline that can help:
As the cold weather really sets in around Raleigh, it is best to check for any leaks around your home. It is easier to fix a small leak before it turns into a full-blown burst pipe. When you find a leaking pipe or unexplained puddle around the house, call your trusted plumbers at Streamline Services to handle the repairs. These small leaks left unchecked can cause water damage to your home and leave you scrambling to fix them. Repairing leaks the moment you notice them, instead of waiting for warm weather, will save you from the dangers of water damage, burst pipes, and destroyed equipment.
Drain Your Water Heater
A simple money saving tip for Raleigh, NC homeowners is to drain your water heater at least once a year. Sediment builds up in your water heater throughout the year which affects its efficiency and lifespan. The sediment causes uneven heat transfer and can corrode heating elements inside the hot water tank. Regular draining is a part of all water heater maintenance to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. If you live in an area with “hard” or mineral-heavy water, it can be beneficial to schedule a water heater draining more often than once a year. When you do this regular upkeep, it extends the life of your water heater and saves you money. Start your year on the right foot by scheduling a water heater maintenance appointment with Streamline Services!
Disconnect Hoses and Shut Down Exterior Faucets
The last thing you want to come home to is a frozen or burst pipe caused by an outdoor faucet. It is easy to go around your home and disconnect any outdoor hoses and shut off water exterior faucets. This simple step will prevent any chance of ruining the hoses or developing a frozen pipe in that part of your home.
Set Your Thermostat to 55 Degrees When Leaving Town
It may be tempting to completely shut your heat off while escaping the Raleigh winter. But it will save you money in the long run to resist that temptation. Imagine coming home from a warm, relaxing vacation to find your basement or attic has flooded. By keeping your heat on a low setting while you are away, it will prevent frozen pipes from bursting in your home. You can rest easy while away knowing that your home has a layer of defense against frozen pipes.
Wrap Exposed and Vulnerable Pipes
Even with the heat running in your home, you may have pipes that are still at risk. Leaving cabinet doors open under faucets will prevent freezing in those pipes, but there are others in your home that do not have such an easy fix. Pipes in exterior walls with no insulation, typically those in your attic or basement, can still freeze if left unprotected. By calling the professionals at Streamline Services, you can know that the utmost precautions have been taken to protect your pipes.
If you have an exterior sump pump hose, it may be best to disconnect it for the winter. This will prevent the hose from freezing and bursting open, which will save you during the rainy months. The last thing you want to discover after a spring downpour is that the sump drain hose is not functioning. If you do not want to disconnect your sump for the winter, then checking the drainage area will be key. Do not let snow and ice block where the water comes out and check for frozen hoses. By maintaining your sump pump, you can prevent a costly flooding accident from striking your home.
By following these simple plumbing tips from Streamline Services, you can save money all year.
Start off on the right foot by booking maintenance with Streamline Services and replacing out of date equipment!
