How to Avoid Common Winter Plumbing Problems

Frozen and burst pipes are frequent plumbing problems that can create household emergencies. There are a few things you can do, along with working with a Horsham plumber, to prevent these disasters. Follow these tips to keep water from freezing in your plumbing pipes on winter’s coldest days.

Maintain a Regular Indoor Temperature

One winter efficiency practice involves lowering the home’s thermostat to save on energy through the winter. However, while this practice can lower your heating costs, setting the thermostat too low will allow your pipes to freeze. You could end up spending more on plumbing repairs than the amount you’ll save on your energy usage. To avoid frozen pipes, keep the thermostat set at 55 degrees or higher.

Insulate Your Exposed Plumbing Pipes

Plumbing pipes run in many parts of your home that don’t receive heat. Common areas include basements, attics, and attached garages. Your home probably has pipes that run outside your home as well. Ask a Horsham plumber to insulate the pipes in these exposed areas. They can use spray foam insulation or insulated sleeves to protect these pipes against frigid winter air.

Leave Your Indoor Faucets Dripping

Your plumbing pipes are more likely to freeze when water is sitting inside them. Prevent these pipes from freezing by letting your indoor faucets drip. A small, infrequent drip is usually enough to keep the water moving in your pipes. You can use a bowl or basin to catch the water. Pour the water into a toilet or use it to water houseplants to avoid water waste.

Use Professional Drain Cleaning

Throughout the year, your drain pipes collect a variety of debris. From grease and oil to food particles and paper products, these materials can get trapped in the pipes. When winter arrives, cold temperatures cause that debris to freeze. By providing fall drain cleaning, your plumber can remove the debris and reduce your risk for frozen or clogged pipes.

Rely on an Experienced Horsham Plumber to Prevent Emergencies

When you work with Mallard Plumbing & Mechanical, we’ll provide preventive maintenance and repairs for your entire plumbing system. Whether you need drain cleaning or speedy plumbing repairs, our experienced team will provide high-quality services you can trust. Contact us to schedule service today.