As winter approaches, it is important to protect your outdoor and indoor plumbing from the potential damage that colder weather can bring. It is also a great time to perform some annual tasks and protective steps that will lengthen the life of your plumbing system.

Here are few that Plumbwell Services recommends for our customers:

1. Shut Off and/or Block Outdoor Plumbing – Having outdoor spigots and hoses exposed to the cold can be an inlet for cold air to enter the plumbing systems, cracking it or damaging it. Bleeding outdoor plumbing and shutting off faucets will go a long way to protecting both your indoor and outdoor plumbing system. If your outdoor pipes can’t be shut off, it is important to insulate them with a product made for pipe insulation such as heat tape.
2. Repair Any Leaks in your System – Leaks or cracks in your pipes can be aggravated by a prolonged winter freeze that opens the minor leak up to a being major flooding event. Examining exposed pipes and areas around tubs, showers, sinks, toilets, faucets, pipes beneath your sinks, and other plumbing areas will help you identify potential leaks. Having your systems examined by a professional – such as Plumbwell Services – can provide even greater protection, as we can detect leaks that may not be obvious to a non-professional plumber.
3. Water Heater and Sump Pump – Flushing your hot water heater and having it examined by Plumbwell Services can save you money down the road. We’re able to locate leaks, areas of potential malfunction, worn out parts and other potential problems. Once the heater is emptied, repairs can be made without having any emergency service performed (which is typically more costly) Sump pumps should also be carefully inspected. Taking the lid off, examining parts when it is operating, pouring water into the basin to make sure it is draining, and other checks should be performed. If the pump is more than 5 years old, it is recommended that a professional plumbing company such as Plumbwell Services inspect your sump pump.
4. Well Pumps – If your well pump is enclosed by a well house, it may still need to be insulted, especially if you are in an area with extremely cold temperatures. If it is not housed in a house, then insulting the pipes along with adding an additional source of heat – such as a 100 watt light bulb – can mean the difference between a working pump and a frozen pump that is damaged and needs to be replaced. Sealing the pump so that it is sheltered from incoming air is critically important.

If you’d like help with prepping your indoor/outdoor plumbing for winter, just give Plumbwell Services a call. We’d love to provide our expertise and experience to your plumbing system – keeping it safe all winter long.