Tips

Where did it go? It seems as soon as it came, Summer is gone. Until it returns (at least the spring anyway!), here are some helpful tips from A&L Plumbing and Heating that can eliminate, or at the very least minimize, potential plumbing woes from happening this winter.

So take a few minutes, and take a few precautions, before the real cold hits!

Drain Exposed/Outdoor Pipes: To drain outdoor faucets, close the stop and waste valve (located inside the home), and open the petcock (the small cap or screw on the side of the valve). Then, open the outside valve and let water drain (make sure to leave the outside valve open the entire season). If you plan on using an outdoor faucet during this winter, consider having A&L install a frost-proof faucet, which helps protect from costly wintertime freezes to your outdoor plumbing!

Protecting Indoor Pipes: A sure-fire way to protect indoor pipes that might be prone to winter damage is with using proper insulation. Insulation designed for plumbing is generally widely-available, and is relatively easy to use. One of the simplest forms consists of foam sleeves that are slit lengthwise to slip over the pipes. After insulating your pipes, be sure to secure the connections with duct tape. Keep in mind: pipes that are behind walls generally need no additional protection-because the insulation in walls prevents them from freezing. Instead, pay more attention to those pipes in basements and, in and around areas where cold may infiltrate; here is where the biggest threat for problems are!

Water Heaters: Many families tend to have their water heaters set too high, especially in the winter. Instead, slowly adjust thermostat settings and determine what is a comfortable level for those in your home. (Never set the thermostat for more than 140 degrees Fahrenheit!) To improve your water heater's efficiency, have A&L install a flue-damper that prevents cold air from running up the flue when the tank isn't heating.

Thawing Frozen Pipes: If you've find yourself with frozen pipes, you'll probably want to give us at A&L a call. Pipes will sometimes burst when they freeze, but often the ice works as a plug to prevent them from leaking—now. However, when that ice thaws, you could have a major leak on your hands! But, if it's early enough and you're sure the pipes haven't burst, you can safely use such items as a blow dryer (will take some time though) to thaw them out. If the frozen pipes are behind a wall, try using a portable heater to heat the entire wall.

This is the time of year when, a little common sense will go a long way towards your plumbing (and potential plumbing bills!). If you would like more information on how you can make your home "Winter Safe"-please feel free to e-mail A&L Plumbing today! We'd be glad to answer your questions!