Winter Plumbing Preparation

Frozen pipes are much less frequently a problem today than they were in past eras, but they can still give a homeowner a bad time if they hit you when you’re not expecting it. Most people don’t have anything to worry about if their plumbing stays in heated spaces and interior walls, but under rare circumstances, a frozen pipe in the water main or a pipe in a poorly insulated crawlspace can wind up getting too cold for conditions, and that can lead to problems. The other time when a frozen pipe might be a significant risk is when you are dependent on an independent outdoor well. During the coldest parts of the winter, many well owners run a space heater in the pump house to ensure the mechanisms do not freeze up and stop working and to keep the water coming out of the ground at a temperature where it isn’t going to be at risk of freezing in the pipe during the short trip to the house.

Concerned? Get a Check-Up

If you haven’t been in your home long or you haven’t had a plumber in to check out the pipes in the less accessible areas of the house for a few years, now is the time. Having a pro look at the entire path your plumbing takes through the house can mean getting input about places that might need more insulation or a better plan for updating and maintaining the existing pipes. It also gives you a chance to get an expert’s eyes on the whole system, which can give you a heads-up about any stress or regular wear in the system. Finding a Fox Valley plumbing professional isn’t hard, but seasonal check-ups and emergency calls can make them a little busy, so make an appointment a week or two in advance.

Get Help With Plumbing Emergencies

Having an emergency plumber on call is a good idea, even if you’re not at risk of a frozen pipe. You never know when a seal could go or a drain could develop a problem, and it’s easier to get prompt service from a professional who knows your home.