Winters in Duncan can easily bring temperatures well below freezing. If your home remains vacant for long stretches of time during these cold spells, it can spell trouble for your plumbing. Without proper preparation, your pipes are at risk of cracking and breaking because of the expansion of water as it freezes. Winterization is a process that you or a trusted plumber like those at Gideon Plumbing can perform to minimize potential damage. Following these steps will have you well on your way to a safe and winterized plumbing system.
1. Shut Off Water and Machines
You’ll want to shut off the main water valve. This will stop any more water from making its way into your plumbing system. Turn off your water heater as well to keep the unit and yourself safe while it’s being worked on. As you’re going around doing this, open up every drain valve and tap in your home. Keeping them closed is risky because it can keep water trapped inside over the winter.
2. Drain Excess Water From the System
Some amount of water will still be standing inside your pipes. An air compressor can be used to move this water out of the pipes, either by yourself or by a trained member of our team. A tank water heater will need to be drained as well. Open the drain valve and wait for it to drain completely. Most will have a floor drain, but a garden hose may be used if this isn’t the case.
3. Empty Toilets, Sinks, and Tubs
Flush toilets to remove excess water. Also, check the sink and tub drain traps as well. Add antifreeze to toilets, tubs, and sinks to avoid freezing and cracking.
4. Consider Insulating
Consider insulating the pipes most likely to freeze. You can use foam insulation wraps or slip-on sleeves specially designed to protect pipes from freezing temperatures.
The trained staff at Gideon Plumbing has been serving Duncan and the surrounding area for over 20 years. We offer everything from 24/7 emergency plumbing services to water heater installations, repiping, and drain cleaning. Give us a call today, and ask us how we can help prepare your home for winter!