Without making the proper preparations for winter, you run the risk of running into costly plumbing repairs by the time spring comes around. The knowledgeable staff at K & G Plumbing & Heating in Hastings, NE, find that if homeowners follow these few tips around the holiday season, they’re less likely to have to deal with repairs in the future. Take their suggestions into consideration before you end up with broken pipes, flooding, or worse.

3 Ways to Prepare for Winter & Avoid Plumbing Repairs

Shut Off Outdoor Water Valves

If you have valves that lead to faucets outside of your home, it’s important to drain the water from the line and shut off the valves. All of the hoses should also be disconnected and stored away for the season. This will ensure that any water remaining in the line doesn’t freeze over the winter, which can lead to major plumbing damage. You’ll want to make sure this is done before the first time the temperature in your area hits freezing.

Insulate Your Water Pipes

You should insulate all your water pipes with foam, which can be purchased from any hardware store. Cut a slit in the foam tube and cut it to the length you need before slipping it over the pipe and securing it with duct tape. Without insulation, you’ll risk the water freezing inside and bursting the pipe. This can be especially detrimental if a pipe bursts at a summer home or while you’re away on vacation, as the flooding will continue, ultimately running all rugs, furniture, floors, and even the home structure in the process. If any of the pipes don’t have insulation in your home, cover them with a blanket until you obtain proper foaming.

Drain Your Water Heater

Over time, sediment will build up in your water heater tank, causing rust to develop. If it’s not drained, this rust can end up in the water you drink, bathe, and cook with. Draining it will get rid of the rust particles that have collected, as well as give you the opportunity to examine the tank for excessive wear and tear. If you need water heater repairs or a complete replacement, now is the time to do it so that you aren’t stuck taking cold showers while it’s snowing outside.

For assistance with plumbing repairs or maintenance, contact the experts at K & G Plumbing & Heating. Serving Hastings and the surrounding area for over 25 years, their team provides a number of services including insulation, water tank installation, sewer services, and septic system installation. For more information on their services, check out their website or call them at (402) 463-4470.