Even though you might love winters and can enjoy the weather with some warm beverages and snuggling under the blanket, it is essential to take care of your house during the harsh weather too. Everything is slippery, and it makes performing any type of maintenance difficult if you do not have the right equipment. Here are the top winter plumbing maintenance tips that you should know –
Know the Location of the Main Water Valve – One of the essential tips that you need to know is the located of the house’s main water valve so that you can close it if necessary. During an emergency when you are waiting for the plumber to arrive, you can shut off the valve to prevent the house from flooding. It is best to open and close it once or twice a year to check if it is working properly.
Get an Inspection Done – Before the winter arrives, it is best to take a walk around the house and check the pipes, faucets and also hoses. It is best to drain the hoses and put them away for the winters. You need to give yourself some time and then call a plumbing services oakland, ca company to come and get it checked before the temperature starts to drop since it can make things worse.
Drain Your Water Heater – You need to check the heater before winter starts so that you can start using it immediately. If you start to use the heater when the winter hits, it might be too late. You need to drain and replace the water so that any built-in sediment can be flushed out. You also need to check for leaks and cracks in the heater and then have it repaired.
Be Careful About Clogged Drains – While checking the drain all the year around is a good tip, it is especially important during the winters. It would help if you were careful what you put down your drain that can cause damage. You should avoid putting down cooking oils, food wastes and also fats in the drain. Also, make sure that you rinse that you are using hair traps and rinse the tub after you use it.
Invest in Additional Insulation – Frozen pipes can be big problems for homeowners, and you need to be prepared for it. You should invest in additional insulation for your home’s plumbing. It is best to hire a professional plumber to offer you a solution that will work best for you.
Clear Your Yard – Before the winter arrives, you need to clean your yard of leaves, branches, and debris as they can prevent water from draining out through the gutters. Using the above tips, you can stay on top of the plumbing maintenance tips so that you do not end up paying extra for small repairs and something that can be easily prevented. You need to hire a professional plumber so that you can spend the winter days with your family and doing things that you love. Always check for their license and their experience before hiring them.