Cold and freezing temperatures can change many things with your plumbing, so it’s essential to take precautions. The best way to do this is by scheduling plumbing maintenance during the fall. Plumbing maintenance helps keep all of your systems running smoothly throughout the winter, which can prevent damage and major repairs. Here are some ways that professional plumbers can help prepare your home for the winter.
Clear Drain Pipes
As leaves, twigs and debris fall from trees throughout the fall, they may start to clog your drains. Slow-moving water, standing water and toilet backups are signs that it’s time to clear out your drain pipes. This debris will continue to collect and could freeze during the winter months, which can cause sewage problems, cracked pipes and other plumbing issues. It’s a good idea to have a plumber clear the pathway before winter to prevent such issues.
Sump Pump Inspection
Sump pumps help to remove water that accumulates beneath your home. If your sump pump is malfunctioning, collected water can damage your property and lead to mold and mildew growth. A plumber can make sure your sump pump works as efficiently as possible so that it is ready to handle the increased amount of precipitation that Macon, GA gets during the winter months.
Prepare Your Water Heater
Water heaters work harder during the winter months in order to continuously produce hot and warm water in cold and freezing temperatures. A plumber can inspect and service your water heater to ensure that it does its job efficiently throughout the winter.
Insulate Pipes
While Macon doesn’t get as cold as some areas of the country, it can experience freezing temperatures. Garages, crawl spaces and any area that’s not insulated is open to the cold air. Any exposed pipes in these areas can freeze in the winter, so it’s important to keep exposed pipes insulated. Plumbers can use heat tape, insulation or heat cables to keep exposed pipes protected. This will prevent them from freezing and potentially bursting.
Clean Your Gutters
Leaves, twigs and other fall debris not only clog drains, but they can also clog your gutters. Keeping your gutters clear ensures proper draining, which prevents water buildup and keeps water from seeping into your home’s foundation. Debris and buildup in gutters can freeze when temperatures drop, which can put extra weight on your gutters and cause them to slowly detach from your house.
Gap Sealing
A plumber can also check for gaps between walls. It’s important to seal open gaps that let cold and freezing air in, as this too can cause pipes to freeze. Plumbers generally use caulk or weather stripping to handle this issue.
If you’re ready to get an estimate or schedule a plumbing maintenance appointment in Macon, contact the professionals at A-1 Plumbing today. Our top-rated plumbers will give you a free estimate.