Alessandro DeMarinis of New York is a 4th generation plumber, and business owner. In the following article, Alessandro DeMarinis discusses how homeowners can protect the pipes in their home from cold weather damage, and when it’s appropriate to contact a plumber for help.
When winter weather hits, homeowners often wonder what they can do to protect their homes, especially when it comes to preventing frozen water lines. Because of the severe effects the cold can have on plumbing systems, homeowners should take every precaution possible to avoid damage and keep water flowing freely.
Alessandro DeMarinis of New York says that while there are several tips homeowners can use to protect their pipes from cold weather, it’s important to know when it’s time to call in a professional plumber for help. Below are 6 tips from a professional that can prevent a whole host of problems.
Alessandro DeMarinis Says to Inspect Exposed Pipes
Ideally, Alessandro DeMarinis of New York says that exposed pipes should be inspected before winter hits. This can help homeowners spot any potential problems or hazards before the cold weather arrives. If pipes are not protected by an adequate layer of insulation, take steps to fix this issue as soon as possible, since frigid temperatures can lead to cracks and small leaks.
Find Out Where the Pipes Are Located
Alessandro DeMarinis says that it’s important for homeowners to know where they are located in their home, no matter the weather. To do this, homeowners will need to have access to a diagram of their plumbing system or be able to conduct an inspection themselves. Once the pipes are located, they can more easily monitor for any signs of damage and work to prevent water from freezing there.
Insulate Pipes That Are Exposed
If it is observed that pipes are not properly insulated, there are several ways that homeowners can prevent them from freezing during the cold weather months explains Alessandro DeMarinis of New York. One option is to wrap exposed pipes in foam pipe insulation, which can help keep water flowing freely and reduce the risk of cracking or leaks. Alternatively, homeowners can insulate their pipes by closing off unneeded rooms and sealing gaps near water lines.
Leave Cabinet Doors Open Under Sinks
Leaving cabinet doors open under sinks can also help keep exposed pipes warm and reduce the risk of frozen water lines. This is especially important in kitchens where pipes run to the water heater or dishwasher. When leaving cabinet doors open under sinks, homeowners should be sure to leave the heat on in the home and check pipes regularly for signs of damage.
Set Water Temperature Lower Than Normal
Alessandro DeMarinis of New York explains that by setting the water temperature lower than normal can also help prevent pipes from freezing, as long as it is not done to the point of causing water to boil. Whether its a gas or electric heater, it is recommended for homeowners to lower the thermostat to 65 degrees Fahrenheit or less while they are sleeping at night or away from home during the day.
Call in a Professional Plumber When Needed
Alessandro DeMarinis of New York says that while there are many steps homeowners can take to protect their pipes, it’s important to know that not all pipes can be protected. If a homeowner suspects that their pipes have frozen and may be damaged, it’s important to call in a professional plumber for help. A plumber will be able to inspect the harder to reach, or unseen pipes for damage and make any necessary repairs quickly and effectively.
When to Call a Plumber
For homeowners concerned about protecting their pipes, it’s important to know when it’s time to call in a professional for help. Some signs that homeowners should look out for include cracks or leaks in pipes, water that is not flowing as freely as usual, and any freezing or clogging of exposed pipes.
In case any of these issues are observed, Alessandro DeMarinis of New York says that it’s important to call in a professional plumber right away. A plumber will be able to inspect the pipes and make any necessary repairs to ensure that water continues to flow freely throughout the home during cold weather.
Final Thoughts
Pipes are often neglected until they become a problem but taking steps to protect them from cold weather damage is an easy and effective way to avoid costly repairs later on explains Alessandro DeMarinis of New York. By taking certain precautions and knowing when to call in a professional, homeowners can help ensure that their plumbing system stays in good shape all year long for many years to come.
