It’s Time to Winterize Your Home: Protect Your Plumbing This Season
As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s time to prepare your home for winter. For homeowners in Fremont County and throughout Southern Colorado, winterizing your plumbing should be a top priority. Failing to do so can lead to burst pipes, costly repairs, and serious water damage. Here’s what you need to know to protect your home and your wallet this winter.
Why Winterize?
When temperatures dip below freezing, water inside your pipes can freeze and expand—causing cracks or even bursts. The result? Flooding, expensive repairs, and major inconvenience. A little preparation now can prevent big headaches later.
Steps to Winterize Your Plumbing
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Check basements, attics, garages, crawl spaces, and under sinks for any exposed pipes. Use foam sleeves or pipe insulation to keep them warm.
2. Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Water Lines
Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor spigots. Drain any remaining water so it doesn’t freeze and damage the lines.
3. Seal Drafts and Cracks
Inspect around windows, doors, and your home’s foundation. Sealing these gaps keeps cold air out—and helps your heating system work more efficiently.
4. Keep the Heat On
If you’ll be away for an extended period, set your thermostat to at least 55°F. It’s a small step that can prevent frozen pipes.
5. Call in the Pros (If Needed)
For peace of mind, consider hiring a licensed plumber to handle a full winterization. They’ll make sure everything is properly drained and protected.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you turn on the faucet and only a trickle comes out, your pipe may be frozen.
- Turn off the main water supply to prevent damage.
- Use a hairdryer, heat lamp, or heat tape to warm the pipe—start from the faucet and work back toward the cold section.
- Never use an open flame, as it’s a serious fire hazard.
If you can’t locate the frozen section or a pipe has burst, call a plumber immediately.
Final Thoughts
Winterizing your plumbing isn’t just a chore—it’s an investment in protecting your home. A few proactive steps now can save you from expensive water damage and ensure a stress-free winter.
Don’t wait until the first cold snap hits—start winterizing today!
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