Nothing can ruin the holidays faster than coming home to a burst pipe or a flooded basement. As temperatures drop, your plumbing system faces extra pressure that can turn minor issues into major disasters. Taking preventive steps before the deep freeze sets in will keep your home safe and dry all winter long. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can avoid the headache of hidden leaks and frozen pipes altogether.
Insulate Pipes Before the Freeze Hits
Exposed pipes in your crawlspace, basement, or garage are prime targets for freezing. When cold air passes over these water-filled pipes, the material drops to below freezing, resulting in ice accumulating in your pipes. When that ice expands, your pipes can develop tiny cracks, or they can completely disconnect from the pipe closest to them.
Be sure to winterize outdoor plumbing as well. Disconnect hoses, drain exterior lines, and use insulated faucet covers to prevent cold air from creeping in. These small, inexpensive steps can save you from the much higher cost of emergency repairs later.
Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperatures
The temperature inside your home has a major impact on your pipes. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even if you’re heading out of town for the holidays. Lowering it too much to save on heating bills can end up costing more in repairs if pipes burst while you’re away.
You can also improve airflow around vulnerable pipes by opening cabinet doors under sinks and bathroom vanities. This allows warm air to circulate around those pipes, reducing the risk of freezing. Maintaining consistent warmth throughout your home is one of the simplest and most effective preventive measures.
Catch Hidden Leaks Before They Spread
Small leaks can stay hidden for months, resulting in serious damage to your floors, walls, and insulation. Once temperatures drop, that moisture can freeze and expand, making the problem worse. Regularly check under sinks, around toilets, and near water heaters for any signs of moisture, corrosion, or discoloration.
If you notice an unexplained spike in your water bill or hear the sound of water dripping behind your walls, it’s safe to assume you have a leak. At that point, you should let professional plumbers use high-tech leak detection tools along with their years of experience to determine exactly where the leak is located. Detecting and repairing them early helps protect your home’s structure and prevents mold growth.
Don’t let a wintertime plumbing emergency spoil your holiday celebrations. Instead, let a licensed plumber locate your water leak and resolve it. If you suspect a leak in your Temecula, CA home, call ProFlo Air Conditioning, Heating, & Plumbing to schedule leak detection services today.
