Blog Layout

Four tips on preparing your plumbing for winter

Nov 10, 2021

Nobody would mistake South Carolina as a frozen tundra, but the temperatures do tend to dip fairly low in the winter in the Palmetto State. The thermometer can still find itself beneath 40 degrees in the early months of the year, and sometimes it even drops below the freezing point of 32 degrees. Either way, suffice to say that it gets cold enough in South Carolina during the winter months to force you to take additional measures to care for your plumbing system.

 

Here are four things in particular that our team at Beverly Plumbing recommends you do in order to prepare for the winter.


Disconnect and drain all your hoses

 

If you leave your hose connected to a faucet outside your house, there’s a good chance that some water will still exist somewhere inside your hose. Water, of course, freezes when the temperature sinks to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and if a pipe connected to a faucet contains any ice, the ice could potentially back itself up into the pipes inside your house and cause the pipes to crack. To avoid this, make sure you disconnect all your hoses, and drain them of all their contents onto your front lawn.

 

Shut off the water if you leave your house for extended periods of time

 

You don’t need to turn your house’s water source on and off each time you go to the grocery store, or even leave for a day trip. But if you’re heading out of town for more than a few hours, you should make sure to turn off the water at the main shutoff point. This will prevent water from running, reducing the odds that pipes become filled with water, freeze, and crack. Otherwise, you could find yourself returning home to quite a mess- and it’s not as if you’ll need that water while nobody is in your house to begin with!

 

Buy and activate heat cables

 

If you think your pipes may be even the slightest bit susceptible to freezing during the winter, heat cables should take care of that. Heat cables come equipped with their own inherent thermostat that constantly measures the temperature of the pipes they’re working with. If the heat cables detect a dangerously low temperature in the pipes, they’ll turn on and keep the pipe from freezing and possibly breaking. Once the pipe temperature has risen to an adequate level, the heat will shut off.

 

Seal off the area around rim joists

 

The area between a pipe and the wall it’s going through can be an excellent way to allow cold air into your house. That could chill your pipes, and potentially even lead to them freezing and cracking. Use expendable foam or caulk to plug the rim joists up and ensure cold air doesn’t intrude. Just take care to not actually insulate a pipe from the heat inside the house, as that could lead to some of the same problems you’re trying to avoid.



You might also like

10 common plumbing problems to fix

10 Common Plumbing Problems | Beverly Plumbing

By Janet Beverly • 13 Mar, 2024
Dripping faucets Clogged drains Running toilets Low water pressure Leaking pipes Water heater issues Sewer system backup Sump pump failure Water leaks Slow-draining sinks or tubs

Energy Saving Plumbing Solutions for a Green Home

By Janet Beverly • 07 Nov, 2023
In today's world, where environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly important, homeowners are seeking ways to make their homes more eco-friendly. While plumbin g may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about energy efficiency, it plays a significant role in creating a greener home. In this blog post, we will explore energy-saving plumbing solutions that can help you reduce water waste, conserve energy, and make your home more environmentally friendly. I. Low-Flow Fixtures:  One of the easiest and most effective ways to conserve water is by installing low-flow fixtures throughout your home. Low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets are designed to use significantly less water without sacrificing performance. These fixtures can reduce water consumption by up to 50% compared to traditional ones. Upgrading to low-flow fixtures is a cost-effective solution that not only helps the environment but also lowers your water bills. II. Water-Efficient Appliances: Another plumbing solution that can contribute to energy savings is opting for water-efficient appliances. Choosing appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, with a high Energy Star rating ensures that they use less water and energy with each use. These appliances are designed to operate efficiently while still providing excellent performance. Upgrading to water-efficient appliances not only reduces your environmental footprint but also helps you save on your utility bills in the long run. III. Efficient Water Heater: Your water heater can account for a significant portion of your overall energy consumption. To improve energy efficiency, consider installing a tankless or on-demand water heater. These systems heat water only when it is needed, eliminating the standby heat loss associated with traditional tank-style heaters. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, reducing energy waste and ensuring you never run out of hot water. Additionally, insulating your water heater and pipes can further improve energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss. IV. Greywater Recycling: Greywater recycling is a sustainable plumbing solution that involves reusing water from sinks, showers, and laundry for non-potable purposes such as irrigation or toilet flushing. By diverting greywater, you can significantly reduce water consumption and minimize the strain on freshwater resources. Implementing a greywater recycling system requires professional expertise, but it can offer substantial long-term benefits for both the environment and your water bills. V. Rainwater Harvesting: Harvesting rainwater is an effective way to conserve water and reduce reliance on municipal water supplies. Installing rain barrels or a more elaborate rainwater harvesting system allows you to collect rainwater from your roof, which can then be used for outdoor irrigation or other non-potable purposes. Utilizing rainwater reduces the strain on municipal water sources during dry spells and contributes to water conservation efforts. VI. Regular Maintenance: Regular plumbing maintenance is essential for maximizing energy efficiency and preventing water waste. Inspect your plumbing system for leaks, dripping faucets, or running toilets and fix any issues promptly. These seemingly minor issues can waste significant amounts of water and increase energy usage over time. Conclusion: By implementing these energy-saving plumbing solutions, you can create a greener and more sustainable home while also reducing utility bills. Consulting with a professional plumber for advice on low-flow fixtures, water-efficient appliances, and other eco-friendly options tailored to your home's needs is highly recommended. Embracing these energy-saving plumbing solutions not only benefits the environment but also enhances your comfort, lowers your expenses, and contributes to a more sustainable future.

Why You Shouldn’t Flush Flushable Wipes Down Your Toilet

By Janet Beverly • 13 Oct, 2023
The term "Flushable Wipes" is a bit of misnomer...
More Posts

Book a Service Today

Share by: