As you pack your bags and head south to escape the chilly winter winds, don’t forget about the home you’re leaving behind. While you’re soaking up the sun and enjoying endless days of beach walks and poolside cocktails, your plumbing back home is braving the cold. To ensure you don’t return to burst pipes and a flood of headaches, here are some helpful tips from Aqua Knight Plumbing to keep your home safe all winter long.
1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply
Before you head out, make sure you shut off your home’s main water supply. This is like telling your plumbing, “Take a break, I’ll be back soon!” Shutting off the water reduces the risk of leaks, floods, or burst pipes while you’re away. If you’re not sure where the main valve is (or how to turn it off), no worries—just give us a call, and we’ll walk you through it or stop by to help out.
2. Drain Your Pipes
After you turn off the water, go ahead and drain the pipes. This may sound like a job for professionals, but it’s simple enough to do. Just open all your faucets, flush your toilets, and let the water run out. Trust us, your pipes will thank you for not leaving them full of water that could freeze and expand.
3. Set Your Thermostat to the Magic Number
Even though you won’t be home to enjoy the warmth, don’t turn the heat completely off. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F. This keeps your house cozy enough to prevent pipes from freezing while still saving you money. Your heating bill might not be beach-level chill, but it’ll be a lot better than dealing with a burst pipe.
4. Insulate Those Pipes
If you haven’t already, wrapping your pipes in insulation can add an extra layer of protection against the cold. Focus on the pipes in your basement, attic, and crawl spaces—those areas tend to get the coldest. Pipe insulation is like giving your plumbing a winter coat!
5. Show Your Sump Pump Some Love
If your home has a sump pump, give it a quick check before you leave. Winter thaws can happen even when it’s freezing outside, and a malfunctioning sump pump could mean a flooded basement. Make sure it’s in tip-top shape, or consider a battery backup in case of a power outage. (We can help with that too!)
6. Open Cabinets for Warmth
For the pipes tucked under your kitchen and bathroom sinks, it’s a good idea to leave the cabinet doors open. This lets the warm air circulate and keeps those pipes from getting too cold. Your pipes may feel exposed, but hey, they’ll be warm!
7. Enlist a Friendly Neighbor
If you’ve got a neighbor you trust, ask them to check in on your house every so often. If there’s any sign of trouble, they can give you a heads-up before things get out of hand. Don’t have someone nearby?
8. Consider Installing a Water Leak Detector
For extra peace of mind, invest in a water leak detection system. These handy devices can alert you to leaks while you’re away. Some models will even shut off the water for you in case of an emergency. It’s like having a 24/7 plumbing guardian on duty!
9. Double-Check Outdoor Faucets
Don’t forget about those outdoor faucets and hoses! Disconnect and drain hoses, then cover the outdoor faucets with insulated caps to keep them from freezing. It’s a small step that can prevent big problems when you return.
10. Don’t Forget the Water Heater
Lastly, give your water heater some attention. If you’re gone for an extended period, it’s a good idea to turn it off or set it to vacation mode. You’ll save energy while you’re away, and your water heater won’t feel neglected.
Wrapping It Up (Like Your Pipes!)
Leaving your home for a winter getaway should be stress-free. With these simple tips, you can enjoy your sunny escape without worrying about your plumbing. If you need a hand with any of these steps, Aqua Knight Plumbing is here to help! Just give us a call, and we’ll make sure your home stays cozy and safe until you return.
After all, the only thing that should be flowing this winter is your piña colada—not your plumbing! 😎
Call Aqua Knight Plumbing Today at 630-755-0583 to Winterize Your Home Before You Fly South!
