Preparing plumbing for Winter

Freezing winter weather can strike even in the warmest climate. The water in exposed pipes can freeze, leading to an icy dam that holds up even the hottest water. Heating up pipes up with a device like a blowtorch can weaken the material and damage pipes. This can also cause super heated water to expand at a rapid rate, causing the pipe to blow up. With a little bit of preparation and work, these pipes can last years without any damage and no need to resort to harsh measures.

Winterizing the Plumbing

Before winter comes, makes sure all water hoses are rolled up and stored away. Then close the shut off valve for any pipes that lead outside. Outside spigots should be drained as well.

If there are any exposed pipes in any part of the house, make sure to wrap some form of insulation around each pipe. The pipes you should insulate include plumbing in areas with no insulation, such as basements or garages.

When water is frozen, it expands, leading to busted pipes that will need to be fixed in warmer weather. Because of this, keep pipes that are not being used drained of water and any other liquid. Close these pipes off from the rest of the house for the duration of the winter season.

Some issues can’t be fixed. Problems may arise that only a professional can handle. Call your local Las Vegas plumber for help.