4 Simple Plumbing Precautions to Protect Your Pipes

Whether you’re traveling to visit family this holiday season or hosting guests at your home, it’s essential to ensure that your home is prepared for the harsh Chicago winter. While securing electrical devices and testing fire alarms are crucial tasks, don’t forget to inspect your plumbing system as well.

Frigid temperatures can lead to frozen pipes, which may burst and cause significant damage. To help you avoid such issues, J. Blanton Plumbing offers the following four tips:

Maintain Your Yard

If your yard becomes overgrown, roots from foliage can wrap around your pipes, potentially causing damage and promoting mold growth. In severe cases, roots may even penetrate the pipes, leading to clogs and backups that require costly repairs.

Insulate Your Pipes

Prevent water from freezing and expanding inside your pipes by insulating exposed plumbing in areas like the garage, attic, or basement where temperatures are lower. Pipe insulation can be easily found at hardware stores.

Seal All Cracks

Ensure that any gaps in your attic’s window sills and crawl spaces are sealed to prevent cold drafts from entering your home. Drafts not only make your furnace work harder but can also freeze your pipes, causing serious damage. Sealing openings or using heat tape can help keep cold air out.

Protect Your Sump Pump

Regularly test your sump pump, especially before extended travel. Fill the pit with water and observe if the pump effectively empties it. Check the cord, plug, and breaker for any issues. Consider investing in a backup battery to keep your pump operational during storms and prevent potential flooding.

If you have any questions about preventing winter pipe damage, feel free to contact us at any of our three locations. J. Blanton Plumbing is here to assist with any plumbing concerns you may have!