Hello again, folks! Your friendly neighborhood handyman here, back with another round of winter home maintenance tips. This time, we're diving into the chilly world of winter plumbing problems. So, grab your wrenches and let's get to work!
Frozen Pipes: The Icy Invader
First up, the most notorious of winter plumbing problems - frozen pipes. Now, I'm not talking about a refreshing ice-cold drink here. When water freezes in your pipes, it expands, and that can lead to burst pipes and a whole lot of trouble. So, how do you prevent this icy invader? Insulation is key. Wrap those pipes up like they're going on a ski trip. If your pipes do freeze, find the shut-off valve and call a certified plumber immediately. This is not a DIY fix.
Water Heater Woes
Next on the list, water heater woes. There's nothing worse than stepping into a cold shower on a winter morning. To prevent this, give your water heater a check-up. Flush it out to remove any sediment build-up and check the thermostat to make sure it's set correctly. If your water heater starts making noises like a kettle, it's time to call in a professional. Additionally, there are a number of new tools available like the Aquanta Digital Water Heater Timer. It's specific to electric heaters, although there is one for gas heaters as well.
Drain Drama
Winter can also bring some drama to your drains. With all the extra cooking and baking during the holiday season, it's easy for your kitchen drain to get clogged. To prevent this, be mindful of what you're putting down the drain. Grease and food scraps are a no-go. And remember, your garbage disposal is not a trash can. It can only take soft foods (but not starches like breads) already in smallish pieces.
Sump Pump Problems
Last but not least, let's talk sump pumps. These handy devices help keep your basement dry, but they can also freeze in the winter. To prevent this, make sure your sump pump's discharge line is insulated and clear of any blockages. And if your sump pump starts acting up, don't try to fix it yourself. Call in a professional.
Remember, a little bit of preventative maintenance can go a long way in preventing winter plumbing problems. So, stay warm, stay safe, and if you need me, I'll be in the garage, trying to figure out why my snow blower has decided to start making smoothies.
Until next time,
The Trusty Teacher Handyman
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