Plumbing maintenance for winter in Scottsdale is relatively low key. The chances of frozen pipes or other plumbing issues due to harsh winters are low in Arizona. That said, there are a few things you should consider keeping an eye on during the chilly cold season months.
Why is Plumbing Maintenance for Winter Important?
We’re lucky that, thanks to Arizona’s typically mild winter weather, we don’t need to deal with major winter hassles that can affect the plumbing. That said, it’s still important to perform plumbing maintenance in preparation for this chilly time of year. Even down in the valley, you need to protect your outdoor faucets and exposed pipes during a freeze. Bottom line, having plumbing maintenance performed in preparation of the colder winter months will save you time, major headaches and money because you’ll be able to avoid and catch problems before they become big, expensive ones. Having routine plumbing maintenance scheduled will also help ensure that any water-saving devices you have are working properly (saving you money on your water bill) and helps you do your part when it comes to protecting the Phoenix’s water supply during times of water shortage.
Plumbing Maintenance for Winter Checklist
Inadequate planning for winter can have disastrous results on your piping and faucets. The start of cold weather conditions, even in Arizona, puts added pressure on plumbing, increasing the risk of frozen pipes and leaks. The following plumbing maintenance checklist will help guide you through some basic winter plumbing maintenance steps before it gets too cold.
Exposed Plumbing Pipes
Any exposed pipes (outdoor or indoor) that carry water into and out of your house are at risk of freezing. When water freezes, it expands. If the temperature of the pipes drops below 32 degrees, for even a short period of time, you could end up facing a burst pipe and water damage. To help protect yourself from pipes bursting, wrap them with insulation early in the season. Professional grade insulation will reduce pipe problems that can lead to expensive repairs that are both inconvenient and stressful.
Exterior Faucets and Hoses
It’s important to shut off the water supply to your exterior spigots and hoses before the temperature drops to freezing conditions. You’ll need to let the water drain to avoid ice blocks as well as to release any pressure in your pipes. Even a little bit of frozen water can cause permanent damage to your pipes and require repair or replacement.
Swimming Pool/Hot Tub checks
Take care of the pool’s chemicals and make certain that the heater is working properly. Follow the directions provided to you by your pool or a hot tub contractor. Consider covering your hot tub with an insulated cover to reduce the amount of electricity needed to heat it up. Make sure that you’ve secured all safety latches and always watch children around water.
The first frost of the cold season typically hits the Scottsdale/Phoenix area around late November. If you haven’t had plumbing maintenance for winter performed yet, do it now to ensure that your plumbing is protected. If you need plumbing maintenance for winter, give us a call. We’re happy to help!
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