The best way to prevent damage to water lines during winter is by turning off outside faucets. Regardless of whether your water lines are freeze proof or not, removing hoses and splitters from the spigot during cold weather can save you from a lot of trouble. Failure to disconnect hoses from the hose bib allows water to be trapped, which can cause freezing in the fixture. Below, we look at the benefits of winterizing your pipes for the cold season.
Winterizing Your Pipes Serves Two Primary Purposes
Not only does winterizing your pipes help to reduce pressure in the water pipes, it also helps prevent the buildup of ice inside the pipes, which can hinder water flow. Slow water flow increases energy costs and puts a strain on your appliances including the water heater, dishwasher, and washing machine. Ice buildup in the taps can cause the outer surfaces to attract and condense water vapor. Condensed water vapor starts to leak, which causes the accumulation of molds.
Risk of Long-Term Damage
Perhaps the most severe impact that can result from freezing pipes is long-term damage to your entire plumbing infrastructure. Cold water expands upon freezing, which exerts pressure on pipes, making them burst at their weak points – the seams. An overhaul of the plumbing system may be required which can be very costly.
Have Your Plumber Inspect Your System Each Winter
At SSI, we offer a yearly plumbing inspection as part of our Plumbing Membership. We like to perform these in late Fall so that our professional plumbers can check your entire plumbing system and make sure that your outside faucets are properly winterized. Call or click to schedule an appointment with SSI today to winterize your plumbing system before the freezing weather hits.