Winter in itself is a tough season because of many things. It is known to cause problems to the plumbing of a house, especially if you live in extremely cold climates. Homes in such areas are very prone to encounter such problems and cause the homeowners to panic. But do not worry, Atlas Plumbing and its proficient team are always at your disposal to solve any kind of problem that may arise. Many problems caused by the winter season can be solved with a few maintenance tips only. All you have to do is pay meticulous attention to your plumbing for anything out of the ordinary. Do not hesitate to contact a professional plumber, as a DIY project can lead to more problems altogether.
FROZEN OUTDOOR PIPES
During the winter season, some issues tend to occur more than others, freezing water lines is one of them. These lines do not necessarily run into the home and are most likely to go unused. But the damage that a pipe burst can cause is a lot. So you have to be vigilant and proactive. Winterize the pipes during the fall season to prevent them from getting the temperature drop shock. Disconnect pipes and store them to protect them from damage. Leave the pipes outside open to prevent the pressure from building up. This will significantly reduce the risk of damage. Add insulation to the pipes that are present in the outdoor.
FROZEN INDOOR PIPES
It does not mean that only the outdoor pipes will freeze, the indoor faucets also freeze up with a drop in the temperature. Frozen pipes can cause the pipes to crack or burst causing significant water damage. To prevent this, leave the faucet open at a minimal drip, this will alleviate the pressure and keep the water moving. Leave the cabinets under the sink open so that they can get the heat from the indoors and reduce the chances of freezing up. Contact your plumber and have pressure releasing valves installed in the pipes and faucets. The plumber will provide you with the best advice and lessen the chances of huge damage.
CLOGGED KITCHEN DRAINS
With the holiday season coming the kitchen is working overtime. During the hassle of hosting dinner, the kitchen sink works the most. With food being sent down the garbage disposal, the chances of the sink getting installed are quite significant. Be vigilant of all the items that you put in the sink, it plays a major role in afflicting the damage. Items such as fat and grease shall be put in the dustbin and not the garbage disposal. In the winter season, they can freeze up and clog the sink. Always run cold water while using the garbage disposal and let it run for 30-40 seconds, to make sure that nothing solid gets stuck in it. You can also put in ice periodically to sharpen the blades and keep it running in perfect condition throughout. Do not forget to cover the drain with a stopper before using it.