Plumbing tips for your pipes in winter

Winter is the time when homeowners face plenty of problems related to their plumbing system. It is during this time the pipes tend to get clogged, frozen and they ultimately burst. It is important to ensure that the pipes are free from problems at this time. You need to ensure that you are able to maintain your pipes throughout the time, so that you do not have to hit the emergency button every time. For all those who are really worried about how to keep the plumbing system in best condition in winter, here are some tips which will help you.


Pipes Insulation –


As winter starts approaching, take some time off and ensure that the pipes are wrapped with insulation material. This will help in preventing frozen pipes. In case you notice that the pipes are frozen, spend a few hours to thaw these pipes. Do not poke with any device to ensure the flow of water. At times frozen pipes explode. If this happens, you will have to spend a lot of money on repairs and maintenance.


Keep Away Grease –


Never let grease or oil flow down the drain, especially through the kitchen drains. If oil and grease flows through the drain, it gets difficult to clean the pipe. In the long time, such grease and oil will accumulate dust and dirt. Your pipe will get immensely damaged. You will find it difficult to clean the pipe. Call a great plumber.


Strainer Usage –


You need to avoid the problem of clogged pipes as much as possible. To ensure this, you can easily use a few strainers on drains. This will help in keeping away accumulation of particles. When you notice there is accumulation of debris in the strainer, you can clean the strainer. If you wait for a long time before you remove the clog, the pipes might get clogged.


Try Vinegar and Baking Soda –


These are the two ingredients which are easily available in the kitchen. In winter, you might not like too much water usage to clean drains and sinks. You do not have to spend a lot of money in cleaning your drains. You will need one cup of baking soda and some vinegar. Mix the two ingredients well. You can then pour this down your drain. You can do this at least once in a week. This will keep away sudden clogs.


Watch For Leakages –


No matter how small the leakage appears to be or how minor it is, you need to keep an eye for all leakages. If you notice signs of leakage, get the problem repaired as soon as you can. Homeowners are advised to keep a watch on leaking faucets and showers before winter approaches, when it gets hard to detect. If there is consistent leakage it tends to damage the plumbing system. You can call the professional plumbers later, but your expenses are definitely going to soar. If needed and suggested, you can replace the pipe so that the problem is fixed quickly.


Regular Inspection -


You need to check your plumbing system regularly in the winter. Check for all leakages or broken parts of the plumbing system because in winter, people tend to carry out inspections, especially outside their premises. If pipes and rains are checked regularly, it will help in preventing minor problems becoming big. Easy and quick detection is always recommended, if you wish to ensure smooth running of the plumbing system. Professionals will visit your premises with adequate tools and equipment. They will detect the problem quickly and find the best solution most effectively.


Replace Old Appliances –


If you have a very old sump pump or water heater, consider replacing it with a modern and energy efficient one. Old appliances not only cause recurring expenses, but they are not efficient and modern as well. Wouldn’t you like to use the best and improved version of all appliances?


You need to keep in mind that your bills can actually soar in different ways, if you neglect small plumbing issues. Pipes and drains or other plumbing appliances, need to be regularly maintained to ensure uninterrupted working. If you maintain the plumbing system regularly, you will be able to save a lot of money in repairs, maintenance and replacement as well.