Seasonal Plumbing Maintenance: Preparing Your Pipes for Winter and Summer

Seasonal plumbing maintenance is a must to keep your house plumbing system in its very best condition, especially during extreme winter or summer. Whether it is preparing your water heater for cold months ahead or protecting your pipes from heat, knowing the steps can save you money and prevent unpleasantness when it comes to the plumbing system.

Winter Plumbing Maintenance: Protection from Freezing

The freezing temperatures of the winter season could pose quite a threat to your plumbing system. Your pipes could burst, bringing with it some costly repairs and water damage. Here are some good steps in winter plumbing maintenance in Phoenix:

• Insulate Pipes: 

These are some of the best ways to prevent frozen pipes, such as providing insulation to all exposed pipes in attics, basements, and garages. Foam pipe covers protect the pipes from extreme cold by insulating them.

• Seal Leaks: 

Drafts around doors, windows, and other openings can cause pipes to freeze. Make sure to seal all leaks to keep cold air away from your plumbing.

• Outdoor Faucets: 

Water left in outdoor faucets may freeze and damage them. Unhook all garden hoses and allow the water to drain out outdoor faucets. Then, shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets.

• Let Cold Water Drip: 

Consider letting cold water drip from your faucets, especially if their pipes are exposed to external walls. Running water at an even temperature will help keep it from freezing.

It is high time you consider hiring a professional water heater to inspect and service your unit before winter starts. Suppose your water heater is almost on its deathbed, and you can survive for a little while. In that case, consider water heater replacement services to avoid breakdowns when freezing temperatures affect your home.

Summer Plumbing Maintenance: Protecting from Heat and Increased Usage

Although summer is not the period with the highest risk for your plumbing, it certainly has its risks. Hot weather and increased water consumption because of gardening, a swimming pool, or other outdoor activities can put immense pressure on your plumbing system. 

Here is how you can keep your plumbing in good shape during summer:

• Check for Leaks: 

Any outdoor activity can subject a plumbing system to more water pressure, which can cause leaks. Observe drips and leaks around faucets, toilets, and irrigation systems regularly.

• Check Sprinkler Systems: 

Most homes use sprinklers during the summer to keep their lawns green and healthy. Your sprinkler system should also be inspected for any signs of wear and tear, for example, broken or leaking heads.

• Monitor Your Water Heater:  

At this point, the water heater may not be as integral to daily activities as during winter. Ensure a professional Phoenix specialist can examine your water heater in Phoenix for routine repairs or audits.

• Clear Your Drains: 

Summer can be a season of barbecues and outdoor gatherings in the backyard. Food bits and greasy leftovers get stuck in your kitchen drains. Use non-corrosive drain cleaners regularly to prevent clogs from blocking your drains completely.

Universal Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Both Seasons

There are a few plumbing maintenance practices that apply to both seasons. These year-round plumbing maintenance tips keep your plumbing system running smoothly regardless of which season you are in:

• Inspect Water Pressure: 

Water pressure is too high and could result in bursting pipes or water leakage. Ensure that the water pressure in your home is regulated to a standard level by using a pressure regulator.

• Check the Water Heater’s Temperature Settings: 

Scalding can be prevented, and even heating resources may be well-spent during winter months if the water heater settings are perfect. It should ideally range around 120 degrees Fahrenheit or 49 degrees Celsius for efficiency and safety.

• Schedule Professional Inspections: 

Even if everything appears normal, scheduling routine plumbing inspections will still be a good idea. A professional plumber can identify hidden problems, such as slow leaks or minor clogs before they become severe enough to cause damage.

By sticking to these seasonal plumbing maintenance techniques, homeowners can help extend the lives of their plumbing systems and avoid costly emergency repairs. Be it water heater repair service or even full water heater replacement service, staying on top of such needs keeps your home cozy throughout the year.

The Bottom Line

Having a plumbing maintenance system means that the activities considered protect your house from seasonal knocks of both summers and winters. Ensuring pipework is insulated, maintaining water heaters, and checking for leaks will keep your plumbing systems running all year round. This service lets a homeowner avoid expensive damage, especially in extreme temperatures.