2 Easy Ways to Winterize Your Plumbing Systems
Winters may not be particularly harsh in Portland and surrounding areas, but it is always important to be proactive by winterizing the plumbing systems in your home. It seems like common sense, but many people simply forget to take these small steps. There are a few simple things you can do to avoid common cold weather-related plumbing mishaps.
3 Mountains Home Services suggests the following winterization tips:
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Close and Insulate Crawl Space Vents
You may have noticed that your crawl space has small vents built into the foundation wall. The purpose of these vents is to help protect the pipes in your home by clearing out excess moisture. Closing these vents in addition to insulating exposed crawl space pipes during the colder months will help prevent precipitation from causing unnecessary damage.
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Shut Off and Drain Hose Supply Lines
Doing any outdoor gardening in January? Of course not! Be sure to turn off your outside garden hose supply line and remember to drain it. Don’t leave water in your pipes all winter. Weather conditions may cause leftover water in your pipes to expand and contract eventually wreaking havoc on your home’s plumbing system.
3 Mountains Home Services says most emergency calls don’t happen during the freeze but amidst the following thaw. Water switching to ice and back to water causes undue strain and duress on its surrounding pipe. These ongoing abrasions naturally lead to leaks and joint fractures.
Now that the holidays are almost over, it’s time to get focused and be proactive about winterizing your home plumbing systems.
