Freezing temperatures can result in a lot more than just frost bite. When the cold weather hits southern Ontario, homes in St. Catharines, Hamilton and the surrounding areas are at real risk of experiencing frozen pipes. Keep reading for six simple tips you can use to prepare your plumbing for the season ahead.
1. Unplug garden hoses and turn off outdoor faucets Leaving your hose attached to the faucet all winter long might seem harmless but it can actually cause some major damage. Leftover water trapped in the hose can freeze and increase the pressure in your pipes. All this trapped pressure can result in a burst pipe and a costly visit from an emergency plumber. 2. Insulate your pipes Prevent a plumbing disaster by insulating outdoor pipes and any indoor pipes that are vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Indoor pipes located along outside walls are especially at risk. Wrap them in foam pipe insulation to prevent them from freezing and bursting. 3. Have your hot water tank and furnace serviced Fall is the perfect time to have your furnace and hot water heater serviced. You’ll want to make sure that they’ll be able to meet the increased demand if you’re planning on doing some holiday entertaining. 4. Check for leaks Check your plumbing and pipes for signs of leaking water. Even a small leak can turn into a major problem, especially in the middle of winter, so it pays to be proactive. If you suspect you have a leak somewhere in your home, a professional plumber from Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Drain Service can help. 5. Keep your home warm When the thermostat outside drops below zero, maintaining an even temperature inside your home will help prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting, even when you’re away on vacation. No one wants to come home to a huge mess that requires a panicked call to an emergency plumber. 6. Keep grease out of your drain Holiday entertaining can mean you’re cooking more than usual but it’s important to make sure that any extra grease doesn’t end up in your drain. Grease and fat are liquid when hot but can congeal and cause major blockages when cold. Roto-Rooter Plumbing and Drain Service is proud to serve Hamilton, St. Catharines, Niagara and the surrounding areas. When you need an emergency plumber, call Roto-Rooter Plumbing and Drain Service without delay. Our plumbers are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year so you can get the service you trust when you need a plumber the most. Contact us now for plumbing installation, service and repair.