Top Tips to Protect Your Plumbing in Winter

Plumbing

As temperatures drop and winter approaches, protecting your plumbing system becomes essential to avoid costly repairs and maintain a functional home. Harsh winter conditions can wreak havoc on pipes, leading to freezing, bursting, and leaks. However, with a few preventative measures and some simple maintenance, you can safeguard your plumbing and keep it running smoothly throughout the cold months. In this guide, we’ll explore the top tips to protect your plumbing in winter.

 

1. Insulate Your Pipes

One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is insulation. Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, crawl spaces, and garages are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Insulating these pipes can help maintain a steady temperature and protect them from the cold.

  • Use Foam Insulation Sleeves: Wrap foam pipe insulation around pipes to keep them warm. These sleeves are affordable, easy to install, and available at most hardware stores.
  • Heat Tape or Heat Cables: For extra protection, consider installing heat tape or heat cables on exposed pipes. These devices provide controlled heat to prevent freezing.
  • Seal Gaps and Cracks: Check for gaps or cracks around pipes that allow cold air to seep in. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these openings.

 

2. Keep Your Home Warm

Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature is crucial to keeping your pipes from freezing. Even if you’re away, ensure your home stays warm enough to protect the plumbing.

  • Set the Thermostat: Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F (12°C) at all times, even when you’re not home.
  • Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks by opening cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathroom.
  • Close Garage Doors: If you have plumbing in the garage, keep the garage doors closed to retain heat.

 

3. Allow Faucets to Drip

Letting faucets drip during extremely cold weather can prevent water from freezing inside pipes. Running water is less likely to freeze, and even a small trickle can help relieve pressure in the pipes.

  • Target Vulnerable Areas: Focus on faucets connected to pipes in unheated spaces.
  • Cold and Hot Water: Turn on both the hot and cold water taps to ensure both supply lines are protected.

 

4. Drain Outdoor Water Systems

Outdoor plumbing systems, including hoses, faucets, and sprinkler systems, are highly susceptible to freezing. Draining and shutting them off properly can prevent damage.

  • Disconnect Garden Hoses: Remove and store garden hoses. Leaving them attached can trap water in the faucet, causing it to freeze and crack.
  • Shut Off Outdoor Faucets: Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain any remaining water by opening the tap.
  • Winterize Sprinkler Systems: Use an air compressor to blow out any remaining water in your sprinkler system.

 

5. Locate and Prepare Your Shut-Off Valve

Knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve is critical in case of an emergency. A burst pipe can cause extensive damage if the water isn’t turned off quickly.

  • Test the Valve: Ensure the valve is functional and not stuck. If it’s stiff, consider lubricating it to ensure easy operation.
  • Label the Valve: Clearly label the shut-off valve so everyone in your household knows where it is and how to use it.
  • Drain Your System: If you’ll be away for an extended period, consider shutting off your home’s water supply and draining the system to prevent freezing.

 

6. Check for Leaks and Repair Them

Small leaks can worsen in winter as water expands when it freezes. Inspect your plumbing system for any signs of leakage and repair them before temperatures drop.

  • Inspect Pipes and Faucets: Look for visible cracks, drips, or pooling water.
  • Seal Leaks: Use pipe sealant or epoxy to repair minor leaks. For major issues, call a professional plumber.
  • Monitor Water Pressure: Sudden drops in water pressure can indicate a hidden leak or a frozen pipe.

 

7. Install Frost-Proof Outdoor Faucets

If you frequently face freezing temperatures, consider upgrading to frost-proof outdoor faucets. These fixtures are designed to prevent water from freezing within the faucet, reducing the risk of pipe bursts.

  • Easy Installation: Replace existing faucets with frost-proof models or hire a plumber for professional installation.
  • Add Insulated Covers: Even with frost-proof faucets, use insulated covers for additional protection.

 

8. Keep Water Heater in Check

Your water heater works harder during winter, so ensuring it’s in good condition is vital for consistent performance.

  • Insulate the Water Heater: Wrap your water heater with an insulating blanket to reduce heat loss and improve efficiency.
  • Flush the Tank: Sediment buildup can reduce the efficiency of your water heater. Flush the tank annually to remove deposits.
  • Adjust the Temperature: Set the water heater thermostat to 120°F (49°C) for optimal performance and to avoid scalding risks.

 

9. Invest in Smart Technology

Modern smart home devices can help you monitor and manage your plumbing system during winter.

  • Smart Leak Detectors: Install leak detectors that alert you via your phone if they sense moisture or unusual water activity.
  • Smart Thermostats: These devices can maintain a consistent temperature and adjust settings remotely to prevent freezing.
  • Automatic Shut-Off Valves: Consider installing a system that automatically shuts off the water supply if a major leak is detected.

 

10. Regular Maintenance and Professional Inspections

Annual maintenance and inspections by a professional plumber can help identify potential issues before they become costly problems.

  • Inspect Hidden Areas: Plumbers can check areas like crawl spaces and inside walls that are hard to access.
  • Check for Weak Points: They can identify vulnerable pipes, leaks, and other potential trouble spots.
  • Service Heating Systems: Regular servicing ensures your heating system works efficiently, keeping your plumbing warm.

 

11. Protect Plumbing in Unused Spaces

If you have a vacation home or an area of your house that isn’t used regularly during winter, take additional steps to protect the plumbing.

  • Drain the System: Shut off the water supply and drain all pipes to prevent freezing.
  • Use Antifreeze: Pour non-toxic antifreeze into sinks, toilets, and drains to prevent any residual water from freezing.
  • Periodic Checks: If possible, have someone check the property periodically for any signs of damage.

 

12. Monitor Weather Alerts

Staying informed about upcoming cold snaps can help you take timely precautions to protect your plumbing.

  • Prepare Ahead: Take extra measures, like increasing insulation or dripping faucets, when severe weather is forecasted.
  • Emergency Supplies: Keep tools like wrenches, pipe insulation, and a portable heater on hand for unexpected situations.

 

13. Be Mindful of Snow and Ice Accumulation

Snow and ice around your home can affect your plumbing in unexpected ways.

  • Clear Ice Dams: Ice dams on your roof can lead to water seeping into walls and affecting internal plumbing.
  • Keep Vents Clear: Ensure that vents for plumbing systems, like sewer lines, remain free of snow and ice to prevent blockages.
  • Divert Snowmelt: Use downspout extensions to divert melting snow away from your foundation to protect underground plumbing.

 

14. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

Clogged drains are more likely during winter due to grease and debris buildup. However, avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can damage pipes, especially older ones.

  • Use Natural Solutions: Opt for boiling water, baking soda, and vinegar to clear minor clogs.
  • Drain Screens: Install screens to catch debris and prevent clogs in the first place.
  • Professional Help: For persistent clogs, call a plumber instead of relying on harsh chemicals.

 

15. Plan for Emergencies

Even with the best precautions, plumbing emergencies can happen. Being prepared can minimize damage and stress.

  • Keep Emergency Numbers Handy: Have the contact information of a reliable plumber available for quick assistance.
  • Stock Up on Supplies: Keep supplies like towels, buckets, and pipe repair kits ready in case of leaks.
  • Know What to Do: Familiarize yourself with shutting off the main water supply and handling minor issues like thawing frozen pipes.

 

Conclusion

Winterizing your plumbing is an essential task for any homeowner living in cold climates. By taking proactive measures, you can avoid the stress and expense of dealing with frozen or burst pipes. From insulating pipes and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature to investing in smart technology and scheduling regular inspections, these tips will help you protect your plumbing system throughout the winter months.

Staying vigilant and prepared ensures not only the safety of your plumbing but also the comfort and security of your home during the colder seasons. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll enjoy a worry-free winter with your plumbing system in top shape.

Best Water-Efficient Faucets for Home Plumbing System – 3 Types You Should Know

Are you looking to upgrade your residential plumbing system to a more environmentally friendly home? Water-efficient faucets for home plumbing systems can help you decrease wasted water amount and save money.

The average Canadian family of four generally uses about 300 gallons of water daily. So, you can install water-efficient faucets and save 20% on your water usage, which equates to about $200 saving annually.

There are various water-saving faucets available that you can choose and buy for your home. So, it could be a challenging task for you to do without any background. This complete guide to water-efficient faucets will help you choose the best product for your home. We also recommend you know the best residential plumbing fixtures before going further to understand better what you will use for your bathrooms and kitchen.

touchless water-efficient faucets

What are Water-Efficient Faucets?

According to regulations and codes, the standard flow rate of a faucet for a home plumbing system is 2.2 GPM. A tap that can deliver a 30% lower flow rate is considered a water-efficient product.

With this said, water-saving faucets for home plumbing systems have a flow rate of 1.5 GPM. If everyone improves their home plumbing with efficient products, it will save billions of gallons of water annually. So, it is better to benefit from professional plumbing services and use efficient fixtures or faucets.

Top Water-Saving Faucets

So now you want to upgrade your home’s faucets to ones that conserve water. There is a list of water-efficient faucets that we have provided for you, and you can use any of these for your home.

Touchless Water-Efficient Faucets

Touchless water-efficient faucets have sensors that you can use to turn the water on and off. These plumbing fixtures allow the user to use only the amount of water needed.

You can turn the water faucet on and off by waving your hand over the sensor. This makes it easier to turn the water off while lathering your hands up to help economize water usage.

Additionally, you will not have to touch the faucet with wet and soapy hands. Additionally, modern water-saving waters with touchless technology allow users to control their water usage for daily use.

Metering Faucets

The metering faucets that are used for commercial plumbing and residential plumbing fixtures allow you to set a predetermined amount of water flow whenever you turn the water on.

These modern water-efficient faucets can reduce the water usage of a building by more than 30% annually per faucet. You adjust and control the water flow rate from 0.5 to 2.2 GPM with metering faucets.

Water-Saving Faucets With Low-Flow Aerators

Low-flow or tap aerator is an essential residential plumbing accessory installed at the mouth of the faucet. The primary function of these plumbing products is to reduce the amount of water flow.

Low-flow water-saving faucets save water while offering standard water pressure and easy installation.

After installing low-flow aerators, you will slow the water rate up to 1.5 GPM. You can pair these products with other water-efficient faucets and make your saving continue to increase.

water-saving faucets

Advantages of Water-Efficient Faucets for Residential Plumbing Systems

As evident from the name, water-efficient bathroom and kitchen faucets are mainly used for reducing water usage each time you turn on and off the sink.

Water-Efficient Faucets are Environmentally Friendly

According to scientific statistics, every industrial city in the world will experience a water shortage in the next ten years. So, when homeowners install water-efficient faucets, they combat the effects of global warming.

Water-Saving Fixtures are Cost-Effective

You can reduce your water bill by using water-saving faucets. Additionally, you can turn a commercial building into an eco-friendly building with these simple plumbing fixtures.

Increase Your Property Value with Water-Efficient Faucets and Fixtures

Any upgrades in your home that will improve its efficiency will increase its value. So, if you decrease the amount of wastewater by installing water-saving faucets, you will add value to your home.

Hire a Residential Plumber to Help You Choose and Install Your Faucets

Although installing and using water-saving faucets is not so complicated, it is better to let the professionals handle the job. Additionally, when you contact professional plumbing contractors, in addition to helping you choose water-efficient faucets and installing them, they will also inspect for other residential plumbing issues and solve them to make your plumbing system run smoothly and efficiently.

Commercial Plumbing Systems vs. Residential Plumbing: 11 Differences

A building is a living thing, and its life depends on various factors. One of the essential factors is its plumbing system. Many people think that commercial plumbing systems are the same as residential plumbing. However, there is a significant difference between these two. As a homeowner or business owner, you should know the differences to find a reliable plumbing professional or contractor to do the job for you. But first, you should know what these plumbing systems or services are.

What is a Residential Plumbing System or Services?

A residential plumbing system is a complicated network in a home that comprises cold and hot water supply pipes, appliances, home plumbing fixtures, drain pipes, vent pipes, water storage tanks, water heat, traps, etc. Generally, the piping runs either concealed inside the walls or on the outer area of the walls.

Essential Parts of Residential Plumbing Systems

Contractors’ residential plumbing services are repairing or installing the three essential components in the above list. So, if you want to ensure that your plumbing systems run efficiently, you should find a reliable contractor to do the job for you.

commercial plumbing pipe lines - O Plus Plumbing Inc. | Leading Plumbing, Plumber & Drain Company in The Greater Toronto Area - Professional Plumbing & Drain In Toronto and GTA

What are Commercial Plumbing Systems or Services?

Commercial plumbing contractors are companies that offer industrial plumbers who work with water supply systems and wastewater drainage systems for public spaces, businesses, complex buildings, and high rises.

Since commercial plumbing systems are more challenging and complex than residential plumbing, it has higher demands in the industry. Reliable commercial or industrial plumbers are responsible for the regular repair and maintenance of all such systems. However, their work scope is almost limitless, depending on their plumbing skills.

Experts in Commercial Plumbing System

As told, commercial plumbing systems and services are complicated and require experience and skill. So, professional plumbers obtain special training for particular facets of plumbing, including:

  • Potable plumbers: These experts work with commercial plumbing systems that involve drinking water.
  • Steamfitters and pipefitters: These commercial plumbers work primarily on cooling, heating, and even electricity generators in industrial environments.
  • Pipelayers: Commercial plumbing system experts generally deal with laying pipework for wastewater drainage.
  • Sewage Systems Plumbers: These commercial plumbers are specialists in commercial facilities sewages.
  • Fuel Gas Plumbers: These industrial plumbers work with tanks and pipelines that contain gas.

Differences Between Commercial Plumbing Systems and Residential Plumbing

Now that you know what commercial and residential plumbing systems are, it is time to understand the main differences between these two, which are:

1: Daily Usage of Residential and Commercial Plumbing Systems

The daily usage of commercial plumbing systems is greater than the residential systems due to frequent use by employees and clients during the day.

However, family members only use a residential plumbing system, so it requires fewer outlets and pipe fitting.

2: Size and Durability

Since commercial plumbing has more usage, it requires large fixtures that have higher grades and more extended durability. Using larger fixtures and long-lasting materials will reduce the breaking down due to pressure or strain.

The fixtures are smaller in the home plumbing systems, and lower-grade pipes are used since they do not undergo as frequent use as commercial facilities.

3: Complexity Difference Between Commercial Plumbing Systems and Residential Ones

Most commercial buildings have multiple floors, toilets, and sinks, while most homes usually have simple and easy navigation through their structure. This means that commercial plumbers understand complex building structures.

4: Efficiency Difference

No plumbing system is perfect, and damages are always expected at any point. A clogged sink or bathroom in commercial facilities may pose a difficulty to many people, and fixing them should be done quickly. So, it is recommended to hire professional plumbers who are experienced in dealing with these complex systems.

commercial plumbing

5: Probability of Damage in Commercial and Home Plumbing Systems

The complex commercial plumbing systems are more prone to damage than residential ones. The damage to home plumbing is limited since it features a minor size system. On the other hand, even slight damage to commercial plumbing can be disastrous.

6: Water Heater In Residential and Commercial Plumbing Systems

Using larger storage tanks and gas levels is required for commercial facilities since industrial buildings have more people who need more hot water than homes.

7: Health Issues with Plumbing Systems

Since more people visit commercial buildings such as restaurants, there is a need to follow strict health care regulations and ensure good hygiene in the plumbing system.

It is easier to manage residential plumbing systems and doesn’t require different sets of plumbing fixtures like commercial plumbing systems.

8: Work Scope

The work on commercial plumbing systems is more repetitive than on home systems. Residential facilities require plumbing services in particular areas, which involves a standard working hour. However, commercial plumbing services take place at any time of the day.

9: Knowledge Prerequisites for Commercial and Home Plumbing Services

Commercial plumbing services need to be more scheduled-oriented. For example, repairing services in a building needs to be done within the time frame as more people depend on it. So, delays in the work can lead to losses. However, the time is not a problem in residential facilities as long as it doesn’t matter to the homeowners.

10: Drainage Systems and Services

Draining commercial plumbing systems is more complex than residential facilities. Additionally, commercial issues are easier to solve in the home plumbing systems.

11: Dripping and Running Water In Commercial and Residential Systems

Determining small water leakages in residential facilities and homes is much easier than commercial buildings. Since commercial buildings have multiple floors, water leakages are easily missed, which will lead to severe damage and large bills.