Category Archives: winter plumbing

Nov '23

Winter Plumbing Preparations: Your Complete Checklist for a Stress-Free Season

Winter is just around the corner, and your mind may be on planning all the fun activities for your holiday season. But while you focus on fun and family, do not forget to spare a thought for your home’s plumbing. Winter is when some of the worst plumbing disasters happen in homes; pipes readily freeze and burst at this time of the year.

Furthermore, Yellow Key Property Management warns it costs more money to fix plumbing emergencies in winter than in other seasons. But you can avoid these winter plumbing problems if you know how to protect your water pipes from the cold. Here are twelve steps to take if you want your plumbing to pass through winter without any unfortunate incidents.

Clear your drains

To avoid complications during winter, it is critical to clear your drains before winter sets in fully. The last week before winter fall is the best time to get rid of all the debris that has accumulated inside the drainpipes throughout summer and fall. A clogged drain is much harder to deal with in winter.

Fix any leaks in your plumbing

Leaking pipes in your plumbing is a problem at any time of the year, but in winter, they pose an even greater danger. That is because leaks are often indicative of weak spots in the pipeline. Leaks can easily result in ruptures if the water inside the pipes freezes.

Take steps to prevent drain clogs

A dirty dishwasher filter can cause drain clogs; clean the filter in your dishwasher. You also want to be extra careful about the things you put inside the garbage disposal. Fibrous and starchy foods, as well as grease in your drains, can cause major problems in winter.

Maintain your sump pump

The chances that a flood will happen in your home during winter are slim. However, with the onset of spring, melting snow can easily flood the basement. That is why you want to be sure that, going into winter, your basement sump pump is in good condition.

Insulate your pipes

The cost of insulating your water pipes is low compared to the cost of fixing a burst pipe, and the damage that burst pipe will do to your home. There are many ways to insulate the exposed water pipes in your home to protect them from the cold of winter.

Check your water heater

To avoid unpleasant surprises, check your water heater before winter. Flush the unit to remove sediment, stop corrosion, and improve efficiency. If you haven’t already done it this year, this may be the right time to have an expert inspect, repair, or replace your water heater tank.

Shut off outdoor faucets

As soon as it starts to get cold, turn off outdoor faucets to keep them from freezing. Shut the faucets from the shutoff valve and open the tap to drain the water inside the pipe. Failing to do this last part, faucets may still freeze and crack, even if shut off.

Store hoses and sprinklers

If you do not protect them from the freezing temperatures, your hose and sprinkler may freeze and crack. To avoid this, after disconnecting the hose and sprinkler, drain all the water out of them before you store them.

Install frost-free sill cocks

Due to its long stem – 6 to 12 inches long – a frost-free sill cock can keep your water pipes from freezing. Because the stem washer and seat valve are inside your home, it keeps cold air from creeping up the pipe. Frost-free sill cocks are an almost failsafe way to prevent frozen pipes.

Turn off the water if it is unused

Water sources in your home that will not be in use during winter pose a threat to your plumbing if you don’t shut them off. That includes faucets in the garage or basement. Ensure the faucets are turned off from the shutoff valve and no water is left inside the pipe.

Leave cabinet doors open

To help the warm air inside your home circulate to colder areas – such as inside the cabinets –keep cabinet doors slightly open. Do this for bathrooms and kitchen cabinets. You can improve air circulation inside the house with a fan or portable heater.

Let faucets drip

Leaving faucets slightly open to allow a trickle of water can help to prevent frozen pipes. The minor but constant flow of water within the pipe ensures that water doesn’t freeze and turn into a burst pipe emergency. It is cheaper to waste water in this way than to repair a burst pipe.

Lastly, given that winter is the worst season for your home’s plumbing, there is no better time than just before the winter to schedule this inspection. Annual plumbing inspections help to maintain the health of your plumbing by letting you detect and deal with preventable issues.

Also, your home can vastly benefit from having a professional plumber inspect your plumbing to recommend the best ways to winterize the system.

Nov '23

The Importance of Winterizing Pipes in Chicago to Prevent Bursting

During the harsh winter months in Chicago, one of the biggest concerns for homeowners and businesses alike is the potential for pipes to burst. The extreme temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on plumbing systems, leading to costly repairs and inconvenience. Here we will explore the importance of winterizing pipes in Chicago and discuss the steps that can be taken to prevent bursting.

The Dangers of Burst Pipes

Burst pipes pose a significant risk to both residential and commercial properties. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and puts pressure on the walls. Eventually, the pipe may not be able to withstand the pressure, resulting in a rupture. The consequences of burst pipes can be devastating:

1. Water Damage

When a pipe bursts, it releases a large volume of water into the surrounding area. This can lead to extensive water damage, soaking carpets, furniture, and other belongings. In severe cases, the water damage may even extend to structural elements of the building, compromising its stability.

2. Mold and Mildew Growth

The presence of water from burst pipes creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Mold growth can be harmful to both property and human health, causing respiratory issues and allergies. The remediation process for mold can be expensive and time-consuming.

3. Disruption to Daily Life

When a pipe bursts, it can disrupt the normal functioning of a home or business. Loss of running water can make everyday tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene challenging. In commercial settings, burst pipes can lead to business closures, resulting in financial losses.

4. Increased Utility Bills

When pipes burst, water wastage is a concern. The continuous flow of water can significantly increase utility bills, adding to the financial burden of repairs. Additionally, repairs to burst pipes can be costly, especially if they involve accessing hard-to-reach areas or replacing damaged sections.

The expansion and contraction caused by freeze-thaw cycles can weaken pipes over time, making them more prone to bursting.

Why Chicago Pipes Are Vulnerable

Chicago’s climate is characterized by frigid temperatures and frequent freeze-thaw cycles. These conditions can put immense stress on pipes, making them more susceptible to bursting. Understanding why Chicago pipes are vulnerable highlights the necessity of winterizing:

1. Freezing Temperatures

Chicago experiences freezing temperatures for a significant portion of the winter. When exterior pipes are exposed to these extreme temperatures, the water inside them is at risk of freezing. Frozen water expands and increases pressure, leading to pipe ruptures.

2. Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Chicago’s weather often includes periods of thaw following freezing temperatures. During the thaw, the frozen water in pipes begins to melt, resulting in rapid temperature changes. The expansion and contraction caused by freeze-thaw cycles can weaken pipes over time, making them more prone to bursting.

3. Age and Material of Pipes

Many older properties in Chicago have pipes made of materials that are more susceptible to freezing and bursting, such as galvanized steel or copper. These materials may have deteriorated over time, making them weaker and more prone to failure when exposed to extreme weather conditions.

The Importance of Winterizing Pipes

Winterizing pipes is the process of preparing them for the freezing temperatures and potential freeze-thaw cycles of winter. Taking the necessary steps to winterize pipes in Chicago is crucial for the following reasons:

1. Preventing Burst Pipes

The primary goal of winterizing pipes is to prevent them from bursting. By insulating pipes, applying heat tape, and sealing gaps, the risk of frozen water and subsequent ruptures can be significantly reduced. Proper insulation helps maintain the temperature of the water inside the pipes, preventing it from freezing and expanding.

2. Avoiding Repair Costs

Preventing burst pipes through winterization can save homeowners and businesses from costly repairs. Repairing burst pipes often involves locating the source of the rupture, accessing the affected area, and replacing damaged sections. By investing in winterization, property owners can avoid the hassle and financial burden of extensive repairs.

3. Preserving Property and Belongings

Winterizing pipes not only protects the plumbing system but also safeguards the property and belongings within it. By preventing water damage caused by bursting pipes, homeowners and businesses can avoid costly repairs to walls, floors, furniture, and personal possessions. Preserving the integrity of the property is essential for its long-term value.

4. Maintaining Continuity of Daily Life

When pipes burst, the disruption to daily life can be significant. Water supply interruptions can make it challenging to perform routine tasks such as bathing, cooking, and cleaning. By winterizing pipes, homeowners and businesses can ensure a continuous water supply even during freezing temperatures, maintaining normalcy in their daily routines.

5. Ensuring Business Operations

For businesses in Chicago, burst pipes can lead to temporary closures, resulting in financial losses. The importance of winterizing pipes is particularly significant for commercial properties that rely on a consistent water supply. By protecting pipes from freezing and bursting, business owners can ensure uninterrupted operations during the winter months.

Repairing burst pipes often involves locating the source of the rupture, accessing the affected area, and replacing damaged sections.

Steps to Winterize Pipes

Now that we understand the importance of winterizing pipes in Chicago, let’s explore the essential steps that should be taken to prevent bursting:

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Identify any exposed pipes in your property and insulate them with pipe sleeves or heat tape. Insulation helps to maintain the temperature of the water inside the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing and bursting. Focus on pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and garages.

2. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Inspect your property for gaps and cracks where cold air can enter. Use caulk or insulation foam to seal these gaps around windows, doors, and any other openings. By limiting cold air infiltration, you can help maintain a warmer environment for your pipes.

3. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Prior to the arrival of freezing temperatures, disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses. Leaving hoses connected can prevent water from draining properly, leading to the freezing of water in the connected pipes. Disconnecting hoses allows water to drain out and reduces the risk of burst pipes.

4. Allow Faucets to Drip

During extremely cold nights, allow faucets connected to vulnerable pipes to drip slightly. Allowing a small trickle of water to flow can prevent the buildup of pressure in the pipes, reducing the likelihood of bursting. This technique is particularly effective for faucets located on exterior walls or in unheated spaces.

5. Keep Cabinets Open

If you have pipes located inside cabinets, such as those under the kitchen or bathroom sink, keep the cabinet doors open. This allows warm air from the room to circulate around the pipes, helping to keep them at a more consistent temperature and preventing freezing.

6. Maintain Heating System

Regularly schedule maintenance for your heating system to ensure it is in optimal condition. A well-functioning heating system can help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the risk of freezing pipes. Consider installing a thermostat that allows you to monitor and control the temperature remotely.

7. Drain Irrigation Systems

If you have an irrigation system for your garden or outdoor landscape, be sure to drain it completely before the onset of winter. Water left in the system can freeze and cause extensive damage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with a professional to properly winterize your irrigation system.

8. Seek Professional Assistance

If you are unsure about any aspect of winterizing your pipes or if your property has a complex plumbing system, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. A licensed plumber can assess your property, identify vulnerable areas, and recommend the most effective winterization measures.

Wrapping it Up

Winterizing pipes in Chicago is not just a precautionary measure; it is a necessity to prevent the disastrous consequences of burst pipes. By taking the time to insulate, seal, and protect your pipes, you can safeguard your property, save money on repairs, and ensure the continuous flow of water throughout the winter months. Don’t wait until it’s too late—start winterizing your pipes today.

Oct '23

Outdoor Maintenance Tasks to Tackle Before Winter

outdoor maintenance tasks are important before winter.

Image courtesy of Freepik

Have you completed your winter home maintenance checklist? In case you’re not sure of all that’s involved, Chicago Plumbing Experts offers a list of essential exterior maintenance tasks to complete before the snow flies. Knowing they’re done will give you peace of mind throughout the bitterest winter weather.

Have Your Roof and Chimney Inspected

Even minor summer hail or wind storms can cause damage to your roof that will only worsen when winter storms hit. Inspecting your roof, or having it inspected by an expert, can catch damage before it gets any worse. A big wintertime culprit is moisture, when the freeze-thaw cycle allows it to seep into the smallest of cracks, such as under broken shingles or jeopardized flashing. This can lead to leaks or even worse a roof collapse. Consider fixing your roof an investment toward your safety now and your home’s increased value later.

Now is also the ideal time for a chimney inspection and cleaning so your fireplace is ready to warm you this winter. Built-up dirt and sediment can not only make it less efficient, it can be a dangerous fire hazard. Before you light that first cozy fire, make sure your chimney is clean and in good repair.

Consider a Home Warranty

A home warranty can be a valuable tool in helping protect you from troublesome issues during the winter months. As temperatures drop, your home’s heating system, plumbing, and other key systems may be under increased strain, which could lead to unexpected breakdowns. With a home warranty in place, you can ensure that you will be financially protected against the costs of repairing or replacing these critical systems. The warranty covers the expenses related to parts and labor for repairs, providing peace of mind and financial security.

Clean and Store Outdoor Gear

Clean, oil, and put away all of your gardening tools. A great way to oil hand tools is by plunging them in a bucket of coarse sand mixed with food-grade mineral oil. The sand will scour away any remaining traces of dirt or rust and the oil will protect them from rust until next spring. Because mineral oil doesn’t turn rancid and isn’t toxic like motor oil, you won’t have to worry about unwanted residue in your vegetable garden.

Clean and store kid’s toys, outdoor games, and patio furniture. The time to take care of them is now, before they’re buried under fallen leaves or snow.

Complete Landscaping Tasks

The time to take care of branches that could rub against your siding or roofing is before a blizzard strikes. Branches that clear the house now might rub or break off once they’re weighed down by snow or ice, so remove any compromised limbs before winter does it for you.

Finish pruning and mulching your other shrubs and perennials. SFGate explains that Fall pruning helps shape the plant, controls its size, and removes parts that are susceptible to winter damage. It also removes foliage where diseases, rodents or insects could find winter shelter.

Rake up and compost or otherwise dispose of fallen leaves. If you leave them just as they fall, they can encourage lawn-damaging fungus. However, running a lawnmower over very crisp fallen leaves can actually benefit your lawn as the leaf bits decompose naturally. The leaf mulch will keep soil temperatures more even, hold in moisture, and may even reduce weeds next spring.

Clean Out Your Gutters

Just like your lawn, gutters are magnets for fallen leaves. Those unshredded leaves will mat together to form an impermeable barrier that will prevent water from draining properly. Instead, the water will back up and can result in everything from rot on your roof to cracks in your home’s foundation. For homeowners with a lot of debris, gutter guards can help reduce your maintenance burden.

Improve Lighting

During the long, dark winter nights, it’s important that you have adequate exterior lighting. Good lighting along walkways and on steps can help prevent falls due to unseen patches of ice. Using LED lights with motion sensors and/or automatic daylight shut-offs gives you all the energy-efficient lighting you need without straining your utility budget.

Prepare for Snow and Ice Removal

You’ll need a good snow shovel (preferably with an ergonomic handle) and possibly a snowblower. Also, keep adequate supplies of sand and/or ice-melting chemicals near each exit from your home and garage. If you have pets, make sure you choose pet-friendly ice melt products.

As the crispness of fall fades and the chill of winter sets in, it’s essential to ensure our homes are ready to face the elements. Proactive outdoor maintenance not only safeguards against potential damages but also provides peace of mind during the colder months. By taking these precautionary steps, homeowners can ward off unexpected complications and ensure a cozy and trouble-free winter. Remember, a little effort now can prevent major headaches later, allowing you to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the snowy season.

Oct '23

Winter Plumbing Maintenance: How to Safeguard Your Drains from Freezing Temperatures

As winter approaches, it brings a set of challenges for homeowners. One of the primary concerns is the health and functionality of the plumbing system. Exposed drains and pipes are susceptible to freezing temperatures, leading to significant damage and costly repairs. Ensuring proper winter plumbing maintenance is not just a routine task but a critical preventive measure. This article aims to provide homeowners with comprehensive insights and actionable steps to protect their plumbing from the adverse effects of winter, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free season. Being prepared and knowledgeable about the potential threats and their solutions is essential.

How Cold Weather Affects Your Plumbing

Cold weather poses a considerable challenge to the integrity of our plumbing systems. The primary reason is that when water freezes, it expands, exerting significant pressure on the pipes it’s confined within. This expansion can lead to cracks, leaks, or, in severe cases, completely burst pipes. Such disruptions not only result in the inconvenience of lost water supply but can also culminate in expensive repair costs and potential water damage to the property. To avoid plumbing emergencies, homeowners must be aware of how the cold impacts their plumbing and take necessary precautions. Recognizing these threats early on can be the key difference between a smooth winter and a troublesome one.

Winter Plumbing Maintenance Checklist: Safeguarding Your Drains

Insulation is Key

Insulation plays a crucial role in protecting pipes from the harsh winter temperatures. Pipes in unheated home areas, such as basements, garages, and attics, are particularly vulnerable to freezing. By wrapping these pipes with foam pipe insulation, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of frozen or burst pipes. This insulation acts as a protective barrier, retaining the warmth of the water within and keeping the cold at bay. Additionally, insulation tapes can provide an extra layer of protection and are relatively easy to apply. Good-quality insulation prevents potential damage and ensures the plumbing system operates efficiently throughout the cold months.

Seal Gaps and Cracks

Ensuring that your home is free from gaps and cracks is essential in plumbing maintenance during the winter months. These small openings allow cold air to infiltrate, directly exposing your plumbing to freezing. Especially in older homes, it’s not uncommon to find gaps in windows, walls, floors, and near the foundation. Taking the time to inspect these areas and using suitable materials like caulk or weather stripping to seal them can make a considerable difference. By effectively sealing these gaps and cracks, you’re safeguarding your plumbing and enhancing your home’s overall energy efficiency, leading to potential savings on heating costs during the cold season.

If your house has very old windows, an unskippable step of your winter plumbing maintenance is to seal them and prevent gaps that create drafts in your home.

Indoor Heating and Thermostat Tips

Effective management of indoor heating is a cornerstone of plumbing maintenance. Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature helps ensure that pipes, especially those running through walls and less-insulated areas, remain above freezing points. It’s advisable to keep the thermostat set to a consistent temperature, even during nighttime or when the home is unoccupied. Additionally, areas under sinks, often neglected, can benefit from the circulation of warm air. Opening cabinet doors under sinks during extreme cold spells allows the home’s heat to keep those pipes warm. By adhering to these heating and thermostat tips, homeowners can significantly bolster their defenses against the challenges winter presents to plumbing.

Garden Hose & Outdoor Faucets

Outdoor plumbing components, like garden hoses and outdoor faucets, are vulnerable when exposed to harsh winter elements. Before winter sets in with its full force, it’s wise to disconnect and drain garden hoses. Proper storage is also crucial, not only to avoid water freezing within them but also to maintain their longevity. In fact, in the experience of NYC Mini Storage, proper storage can greatly extend the life of many of your outdoor items, including hoses. Additionally, even outdoor faucets that you use rarely are still at risk. Using faucet covers can shield them from the cold, acting as a thermal barrier.

Outdoor faucet connected to a garden hose.

Make sure you disconnect and drain garden hoses before the cold winter weather comes.

Keep Water Flowing

A central tenet of winter plumbing maintenance is ensuring continuous water flow. When water remains stagnant in pipes during extreme cold, it’s more likely to freeze and cause issues. Allowing a faucet to drip slightly during particularly cold nights can prevent this. This gentle flow ensures that water doesn’t stagnate, minimizing the risk of freezing. Another essential consideration is the water heater. Make sure you have the right water heater that’s both efficient and in good working condition. As it works harder during winter to provide warm water, having a reliable system is crucial. Ensuring flow and adequate heating is paramount in thorough winter plumbing protection.

Advanced Precautions: Going Beyond the Basics

Install Heat Tape

Heat tape has emerged as an effective solution to combat the freezing of pipes during winter. It is an electrically heated tape designed specifically to be wrapped around vulnerable pipes, emitting heat and preventing water inside from freezing. Applying heat tape can be particularly beneficial for pipes located in unheated areas of a home or those most exposed to cold drafts. When selecting heat tape, choosing a product suited to your specific needs is important. Remember to always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines during installation. Furthermore, regularly checking its functionality throughout the winter can ensure it’s working optimally.

Upgrade to Frost-Free Faucets

Frost-free faucets have become a valuable addition to winter plumbing maintenance strategies. Unlike traditional faucets, these are specifically designed to resist the freezing effects of winter temperatures. They feature a unique design where the water shut-off mechanism is positioned deep within the insulated walls of the home, reducing the chances of water freezing within the faucet. This not only prevents potential damage but also reduces water wastage. For homeowners living in particularly cold regions or those simply wanting to bolster their winter plumbing defenses, upgrading to frost-free faucets offers an effective, long-term solution.

What to Do if Pipes Start to Freeze

Despite best efforts and precautions, there might be times when pipes start to freeze. It’s essential not to panic in such situations. Begin by shutting off the main water supply to prevent potential flooding. Gently thaw the affected areas using safe methods, like a hairdryer or heating pad, avoiding open flames or high-heat sources. Remember to thaw gradually; haste can cause further damage. If unsure about the situation, seeking professional help is always advisable. It’s essential to act quickly, as scheduling repairs in the winter can be more difficult due to increased demand and challenges posed by cold weather conditions. Being prepared for emergencies ensures a swift and effective response.

If something does go wrong with your plumbing system during the winter, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help.

Concluding Thoughts

Winter plumbing maintenance is essential for homeowners, aiming to ensure that the cold months pass without unexpected disruptions or costly repairs. While winter’s chill may be unforgiving, our plumbing systems can efficiently brave the season with the right precautions and knowledge. From understanding how cold affects our pipes to investing in long-term solutions like frost-free faucets, the steps outlined here provide a comprehensive approach to safeguarding your home’s plumbing. Remember, preventive measures not only save money but also provide peace of mind. As winter approaches, let’s prioritize this aspect of plumbing maintenance, ensuring our homes remain warm, undisturbed sanctuaries throughout the season.