During this time of year, the harsh weather often drives families inside, where everything is warm, cozy, and reliable. However, if the effects of the temperature start to influence your home’s plumbing system, you could feel winter’s wrath indoors. To ensure this season is hassle-free and avoid an emergency call to the plumber, use the following advice.

3 Plumber-Approved Tips for Winter Upkeep

1. Be Gentle With the Thermostat

In an effort to save on utility costs, many homeowners turn down their heating systems when they leave the house or take the kids to school during the winter—then raise them when getting home. While a bit of an adjustment is safe and cost-effective, a drastic change in temperature could cause your plumbing system to freeze. To err on the side of caution, don’t lower the thermostat more than 15 degrees Fahrenheit, and make sure your home is always above 45 degrees, even if you go away on vacation.

2. Insulate Your Plumbing

Some pipes, such as those in your basement, are too far away from your home’s heating system to feel its effects. These are at an increased risk of freezing, and potentially bursting, resulting in significant water damage. To prevent this worst-case scenario, wrap your pipes in insulating covers, or apply heat tape alongside them.

3. Trash Large Scraps

As you cook up hearty meals for the whole family this winter, leave most of the food scraps in the garbage. If the food pieces are too big or tough for the garbage disposal to chop up, they could create a stubborn blockage in your pipes, leading to slow drains and sewage backup. If you produce grease, such as when cooking bacon, pour the oil into a disposable container and allow it to cool before putting it in the trash. Otherwise, oil will solidify inside your pipes, caking up the sides until it clogs.

If you’re looking for a plumber to offer more helpful winter maintenance tips, turn to Green's Furnace & Plumbing in Lincoln, NE. With over 95 years of experience serving local residents, this team has mastered a wide range of skills, from plumbing to heating and air conditioning repairs. To learn more about their services, visit the website. You can also call (402) 467-4444 to schedule a tuneup or inspection today.