When winter hits East TN, freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing. Frozen pipes are not just an inconvenience—they can cause significant damage and costly repairs. This guide offers practical tips to keep your pipes safe this winter.
Insulating Pipes Exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages are most vulnerable to freezing. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to provide extra protection against cold temperatures.
Sealing Cracks and GapsCracks near windows, doors, and walls allow cold air to enter and freeze nearby pipes. Caulk and weatherstrip these openings to safeguard your plumbing.
Keeping Water FlowingRunning water is less likely to freeze. During extremely cold weather, let your faucets drip slightly to keep water moving through your pipes.
Opening Cabinet DoorsAllow warm air to reach pipes under sinks by keeping cabinet doors open, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
Maintaining a Consistent TemperatureAvoid drastic temperature drops in your home by keeping your thermostat set at the same level day and night. If traveling, do not lower it below 55°F.
Disconnecting Outdoor HosesTrapped water in hoses and outdoor faucets can freeze and expand, leading to pipe damage. Disconnect and store hoses, and cover outdoor faucets for added protection.
Knowing Your Main Water Shut-Off ValveIn case of a burst pipe, turning off the main water supply quickly can minimize water damage. Ensure you know where the valve is located and how to use it.
Benefits of Frozen Pipe Prevention
Avoid Costly RepairsTaking preventative steps saves you from expensive pipe repairs and water damage restoration.
Peace of MindKnowing your home is protected against freezing temperatures allows you to enjoy winter without worry.
Emergency Tip: Thawing Frozen Pipes SafelyIf you suspect a pipe is frozen, turn off the water supply and use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels to gently thaw it. Never use an open flame or torch to thaw pipes as it poses a fire hazard.
Trust the Experts at Eco Home Solutions Protecting your home from frozen pipes is easier with professional help. At Eco Home Solutions, we offer expert plumbing services to keep your home safe and functional during winter. As the fastest in town guaranteed, we’re here to assist with all your plumbing needs.
Preventing frozen pipes is essential to avoid costly repairs and keep your home running smoothly all winter. Follow these tips to safeguard your plumbing, and don’t hesitate to call Eco Home Solutions for expert assistance. Contact us today for a free consultation!
Look out for slow drains, discolored water, and low water pressure. Also, watch for hidden water leaks, high water bills, noisy pipes, smelly drains, and a wobbly toilet.
The main parts are the water supply, water distribution, and drainage systems.
A plumbing report checks a home's plumbing system thoroughly. It looks at pipes, fixtures, appliances, and drainage. The goal is to spot issues early to avoid big problems later.
Slow drains might just mean a clog. But if many drains are slow, it could be a big issue. This could lead to water damage or sewage backup if not fixed.
City water is reliable and safe. Well water can save money and offer chemical-free water.
As homes get older, plumbing can start to fail. This might mean leaks, clogs, or pipe damage. A plumbing check-up finds these issues early. This saves time and money on repairs later.
Discolored water, like yellow, green, or brown, means your pipes might be rusting. This can cause leaks and burst pipes if not fixed.
Important parts include stop valves, hot water lines, and cold water lines.
A full plumbing check looks at both indoor and outdoor plumbing. It checks for leaks, corrosion, or damage. Inspectors examine pipes, fixtures, and water-using appliances. They use cameras to look inside pipes, drains, and sewer lines too.
Low water pressure can come from many things. This includes faulty fixtures, clogged pipes, closed valves, or corrosion. A professional should check it out.
The drainage system uses vents, traps, and cleanouts for proper wastewater flow.
Getting a plumbing check helps fix problems before they get worse. It saves money and hassle. It's also good when selling a home, showing the plumbing is in good shape to buyers.
Hidden leaks can show as bubbling or peeling paint. You might also see wet stains on walls and ceilings. This means the leak is getting worse and harming your home's structure.
Use strainers, avoid pouring grease down drains, and be careful with what you flush.
Choose a plumber who is licensed, insured, and known for good inspections. Experienced plumbers have the skills and tools to check your plumbing well.
A high water bill without a clear reason means there might be a leak. Fixing it quickly can prevent a lot of water damage.
Maintenance tasks include clearing drains, inspecting pipes, draining the water heater, and winterizing pipes.
There are two main types. Visual checks look at what you can see. Camera inspections use high-resolution cameras to see inside pipes and drains.
Noisy pipes, like crackling or gurgling, suggest a problem. This could be trapped air, high pressure, clogged drains, or worn-out parts. A pro should take a look.
You'll need a basin wrench, drain snake, pipe cutter, plumber's tape, plunger, and tongue-and-groove pliers.
The report looks at sinks, toilets, and visible pipes. It checks the water heater and other appliances. It also looks at the sewer line and drains, using cameras if needed.
Bad smells from drains mean there's likely a blockage or a broken sewer pipe. A pro needs to check it out to find and fix the issue.
You can fix simple issues like unclogging drains and fixing running toilets. But, complex problems need a professional plumber.
A plumbing inspection usually costs about $200. Prices can range from $175 to $500 or more. This depends on how detailed the check is and if special equipment is used.
A wobbly toilet might just need loose bolts. But if it's still unstable after tightening, it could mean a broken seal around the drain. This lets water leak into the floor and cause damage.
Call a professional for complex issues, major repairs, or if you're unsure about the plumbing problem.
For buyers, it gives a clear view of the plumbing system. For sellers, it shows the plumbing is in good shape. This can help sell the home faster.
Keeping up with plumbing maintenance can catch problems early. This saves you money and prevents water damage later on.
Regular checks catch problems early. This saves money and prevents bigger issues. It also avoids water damage and expensive repairs.
