Winter in Virginia can bring frigid temperatures and high winds, both of which can cause problems for your unprotected water pipes. Now that winter is here, we want to make sure you know how to prepare your pipes for anything the weather may bring! The holiday season is one of the most challenging times for your home’s plumbing system because of the colder weather and the added use your plumbing will experience from increased holiday guests. To protect your pipes during the colder months this winter, follow these steps:
- Insulate your pipes. When the air outside drops below freezing, the water inside your pipes can freeze as well. This could cause your pipes to burst and if you’re not home when this happens, the damage could be disastrous.
- Whole home plumbing inspection. It’s a good idea to have your entire plumbing system inspected yearly. This inspection will give you peace of mind knowing your plumbing system is in good hands, and receives our guaranteed superior attention annually. Additionally, the preventative maintenance will help you to avoid issues before they happen.
- Have your furnace checked. If your furnace breaks down on you during the winter your home will be without heat, leaving your pipes vulnerable to freezing temperatures. So, make sure your heating system is working properly before the winter hits.
- Winterize outside faucets. This is especially important because these faucets are outside. You should disconnect and drain water hoses and shut off the water supply to outside spigots if your home has a separate shutoff valve. If water freezes inside one of these pipes, it could cause a buildup of pressure and possibly make a pipe burst.
By ensuring that your pipes are ready for the winter, you are eliminating the headaches and risk of paying unnecessary repair costs for a broken pipe. M.E. Flow has office locations in Alexandria, Leesburg and Winchester – serving all of northern Virginia and can help get your home ready for the cold weather while making sure that your plumbing system is in good shape and working properly. Give us a call at (571) 350-3183.