9 Tips to Protect Your Home or Business from Plumbing Disaster in Winter

North Texas winters are milder than a lot of the country, but we do have our fair share of cold snaps and winter freezes. Make sure your home and business is ready, to avoid costly plumbing repairs, requiring work from a professional plumber.

Know the Location of the Primary Water Shut-Off Valve

Hopefully you will never need to use it, but it’s always good to know where this shut-off is located. Typically, it is outside the home or business. In DFW homes, it’s often in the front or back yard under a metal cover.

Let Faucets Drip

When the weather forecast is calling for freezing weather, make sure you let a faucet drip in your home. This will prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

Disconnect Garden Hoses

Before it freezes, make sure you disconnect and store your garden hose. This can prevent the hose from freezing, which will save the hose and any faucet that it is usually connected to.

Insulate Outdoor Faucets

Make sure you install an insulated cover on any outdoor faucets. This gives a nice, extra layer of protection from the freeze.

Keep Inside Temperature Consistent

Keep the temperature in your home or business at a consistent level, even when you’re not present. Shutting off the heat inside the building could cause pipes to freeze. You definitely do not want the thermostat to get below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Seal Leaks and Gaps Before Winter

Examine your building (home or business) for any openings or crevices in doors, walls, and windows. Apply any weather stripping as needed. This will keep the building warmer for your plumbing.

Service Your Water Heater

Schedule a water heater maintenance check. Make sure it’s in top condition to provide warm water during winter months.

Insulate Exposed Pipes and Vulnerable Areas

Ensure that your pipes are properly protected, especially in unheated and/or exposed areas such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces.

Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection

Before winter sets in, while it’s still Fall, schedule a plumber to come out and inspect your property’s plumbing to identify and address any plumbing issues. This is the best way to avoid plumbing emergencies. Contact Jerry’s Plumbing and Welding and have your home or business inspected today!