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Is your home ready for the chilly months ahead? Winter in Adelaide can be unpredictable, but preparing your plumbing for the colder season is key to avoiding costly and inconvenient issues. Whether it’s maintaining your hot water system or preventing burst pipes, a little preparation goes a long way. We’ve compiled these essential winter plumbing tips to help you avoid emergencies and keep your home warm and dry during the winter.
Routine Plumbing Maintenance: Your Winter Lifesaver
How many winters have you skipped your routine plumbing check-up? The consequences of neglecting this can be dire—imagine waking up to no hot water on the coldest morning, or dealing with a burst pipe that causes flooding and water damage. A pre-winter plumbing check can help you avoid these stressful scenarios, but if it’s not in your budget this month, don’t worry! There are some quick fixes you can handle yourself.
Here are the top plumbing tips to prepare your home for winter:
Clear Your Gutters
Gutters are your home’s first line of defense against rainwater. When they’re clogged with leaves or debris, water pools and puts pressure on the gutters and roof, leading to leaks, water damage, and even structural issues. A leaking roof is often a sign that gutters have been neglected. Before the winter rains hit, make sure your gutters are clear, allowing water to flow freely away from your home.
Clean Your Drains
One of the simplest ways to maintain your plumbing is by keeping your drains clear. Regularly flushing your drains with a mixture of vinegar and bi-carb soda is an easy, eco-friendly way to prevent blockages. Blocked drains can become more problematic in winter, so a little maintenance now will save you trouble later.
Tidy Up Your Outdoor Plumbing
Before the cold, rainy months arrive, it’s time to tidy up outside. Disconnect and drain any hoses, sprinkler systems, and irrigation equipment that won’t be in use. Water trapped in hoses can freeze, leading to increased pressure in your pipes and potentially causing them to burst. Make sure all outdoor faucets are tightly closed, preventing any leaks or water buildup.
Maximise Energy Efficiency
To reduce energy bills while staying warm, ensure your water heater is operating efficiently. Check that it’s set to heat water during off-peak times to save on energy costs. Also, inspect for any signs of rust or corrosion around the water heater’s pipes. A quick wipe-down to remove dust and debris can keep your system running smoothly throughout winter.
Give Your Dishwasher a Boost
Want your dishes to come out sparkling clean while also maintaining your plumbing? Clean the filter in your dishwasher regularly. This quick fix ensures your dishwasher drains properly, reducing the risk of blockages. Plus, it improves the overall performance of your dishwasher.
Check the Washing Machine Valves
If you notice any pressure or leaks around the valves of your washing machine, it could signal trouble. Secure any leaks with water-resistant tape and test the water pressure. Keep an eye on the system during the next cycle to ensure there are no further issues. Addressing small leaks early can prevent bigger problems down the line.
Drain Your Hot Water System
Draining your hot water system before winter is essential to prolonging its life and ensuring optimal performance. This helps to clear out any mineral buildup in the tank, improving efficiency. To do this, first turn off the system, disconnect any electrical components, and then use a hose to drain the tank. Once drained, refill it, turn it back on, and allow it to heat back up before using it again. For best results, this should be done twice a year.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While these DIY tips will help you prepare your home for winter, there are some tasks that are better left to a professional. If you encounter more serious plumbing issues—such as frequent blockages, issues with your hot water system, or leaks that seem hard to fix—don’t hesitate to call a plumber.
At Flowtec Plumbing and Gas, we’re ready to assist you with all your winter plumbing needs. Whether it’s routine maintenance or an emergency callout, our experienced team can ensure your home is safe and cozy all winter long.
