Most homeowners know how much damage exploding pipes can cause, but they don't often know how to prevent this situation. Winters in Georgia can bring temperatures below the freezing mark, whether you are in the mountains or in the metro Atlanta area.
To help you prepare properly for the cold season, here are practical winterization tips to make sure you don't find yourself on the wrong end of a deep freeze.
Settle drainage problems early
Going into the winter with a known problem in your home's drainage system is a terrible idea. Once a drain clog becomes more pronounced, you'll have to contend with backed-up lines that could cause a great deal of discomfort for your family.
Drain cleaning services performed by a licensed plumber can prevent this mess in the first place. Full services include clearing out clogs and using a pipe camera to identify causes of a backup. Once you know you won't have to contend with clogged drains in wintertime, you can start on winterization practices.
Prepping pipes for the cold
Exterior pipes that send water to outdoor faucets should be turned off. Gardening is never a priority in the winter, so use the shutoff valve to stop the water supply before draining the water inside exterior pipes. While you're at it, take note of the location and system for shutting off the water supply to your home's interior. If your pipes do freeze, you'll need to turn off the water supply at the main until the problem is fixed. Utility companies will charge you to perform this task.
To protect the pipes you know will be in use throughout the winter, insulate the connections that are exposed to cold air. Common areas of need are pipes running outside of bathrooms and above or around your garage. Make sure you aren't wasting heat, and keep the garage door closed throughout the winter months. Basement pipes also require insulation.
By practicing simple preparations for winter, you can avoid the majority of cold-weather headaches a home might face. Remember, the coldest months are still ahead of us.
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