We’re no stranger to harsh winters in Michigan. Temperatures can drop pretty low, which is why it’s important to make sure your home is ready for freezing weather. One issue we hear about a lot this time of year is frozen pipes. When pipes freeze, they burst, and this leads to a lot of extra repairs and maintenance. This costs time and money while adding extra stress to the holiday season.
Study some of our tips and guidelines below, so you can avoid any unexpected disasters this winter. And be sure to give the expert staff at Stadler Plumbing a call today for all of your plumbing and heating needs!
Prepare Your Outdoor Plumbing
First things first, make sure all pools, hoses, sprinkler systems, and outdoor valves are drained, and be sure to bring all removable parts indoors, where they can be safely stored. Consider hiring a licensed plumber to reinstall pipes exposed to cold weather in a more appropriate area of the home. The initial cost involved with this process will be well worth it, as you rest easy knowing your pipes are protected year after year.
On these same lines, check whether or not there are pipes in your garage. If so, be cautious about leaving your garage door open, and take measure to keep your garage heated or as warm as possible throughout winter. If keeping things warm is a challenge and/or moving your pipes is not an option, then insulating the pipes is the best way to keep them protected.
Keep Indoor Pipes Warm
Another important step in preventing frozen pipes is ensuring the ones indoors stay warm enough. One way to do this is by keeping your home heated to at least 55 degrees throughout the cold season. It’s also a good idea to keep your cabinet doors open when pipes are inside of them. This allows them more exposure to the warm air inside of your home.
If temperatures are extra cold, it’s wise to let a small trickle run from your faucet. This constant movement through your pipes helps prevent freezing, and trust us when we say that a small increase in your water bill is a lot better than the high costs involved with fixing burst pipes!
If Your Pipes Freeze…
If you suspect your pipes have frozen, you’ll want to act fast! Turn off your water immediately, then give us a call right away, so that we can address the issue as soon as possible. Save your home from damage and save yourself the hassle… let our team of experts take care of everything!