With winter soon upon us, there’s no time like the present to prepare your plumbing system for the frigid temperatures ahead. Having your pipes freeze in the middle of winter is not only inconvenient, but it also has the potential to cause extensive damage to your plumbing system.

Make sure your pipes and appliances continue to operate smoothly this winter by taking the appropriate steps below.

1. Winterize Outdoor Faucets

Winterizing your outside faucets is one of the most important steps to take to prevent serious damage to your plumbing system. Any water that is left in outdoor faucets has a chance of freezing, resulting in a buildup of pressure that could cause a pipe to burst.

Disconnect and drain any garden hoses that are connected to outdoor faucets and store them in a warm location during winter. Turn any faucets off that are exposed to the elements. If your home has a separate shutoff valve, turn off the water supply to the outside taps.

2. Insulate Your Pipes

Any exposed pipes (in areas such as the garage, crawl space or attic) should be wrapped in insulation foam, heat tape or newspaper. Not only will this help prevent freezing, but it will also avoid wasting hot water and will result in cost savings.

3. Locate Your Water Main

Now’s a good time to remind yourself and your family members about the water main shutoff location. If your pipes burst from freezing, knowing exactly where the water main is located is crucial to minimize the water damage.

Remember to shut off the water if you plan to leave your home for longer than a day, too.

4. Get Your Furnace Checked before Winter

If your furnace stops working in the middle of winter, not only will your home be without heat, but your water pipes may freeze. Ensure that doesn’t happen by getting your furnace serviced before the cold weather hits.

5. Be Extra Safe during Cold Nights!

When it comes to ensuring your pipes don’t freeze this winter, it’s better to be safe than sorry! Take any extra measures to prepare your home for the upcoming frigid temperatures in Hamilton, Ontario.

Keep your home warm inside when it’s cold outside, and have your thermostat at a high temperature to reduce the risk of your pipes freezing. Leaving cabinet doors open underneath sinks allows warm air to be circulated around pipes, preventing them from freezing. Keeping garage doors closed as much as possible will help keep the cold air outside.

6. Call a Plumber

The best way to prepare your plumbing system for winter’s arrival is to call in a professional plumbing team! Experienced with all types of plumbing issues, Wentworth Plumbing is your best solution for readying your system for winter. Experience great service from our experienced team of plumbers. Contact us today for more information about our services!