As the weather gets colder, it’s important to take steps to winterize your home–including your plumbing. Colder temperatures can cause several problems for your plumbing, including frozen pipes and an increased risk of leaks. Here are a few hints and tips to help you keep your Fort Collins’ plumbing in top shape this winter.

What to Do for Your Water Heater and Plumbing This Fall

If your home is like most, the water heater is one of the appliances you depend on most. That’s why it’s so important to keep it in good working condition. Here are some hints and tips to help you do just that:

Turn off your house spigot and the inside water supply. This will help conserve water and prevent any unwanted leaks or flooding.
Inspect and prep your sewage system for the upcoming season. This will ensure that your system is functioning properly and can handle any increased usage during colder months.
Tune-up your water heater. This will help maintain efficient operation and prolong the life of your unit.
Clean your gutters of any debris. This will help prevent clogs and potential water damage to your home.
Make sure your sump pump is clean and functioning. This will help prevent flooding in your basement or crawlspace.
Winterize your plumbing. This will help prevent any freezing or burst pipes. Taking the time to do will save you a lot of time, money, and hassle later down the road.
Insulate your pipes. Keep your indoor plumbing pipes warm by insulating them with pipe insulation or wrapping them with electrical heating tape. This will help prevent them from freezing and bursting. You can buy pre-made insulation sleeves at most hardware stores, or simply wrap them in old towels or blankets.
Let your faucets drip. A dripping faucet won’t waste as much water as you might think, and it can actually help prevent your pipes from freezing. The running water will keep the pipes from getting too cold, and the pressure from the dripping water can help prevent any existing leaks from getting worse.
Know where your main water shut-off valve is. In case of a serious leak, you’ll want to be able to turn off the water to your entire home quickly. Locate the valve now so that you’re not scrambling to find it in an emergency.
Drain your water heater and flush it out regularly. This helps to remove any sediment that has built up. This will help extend the life of your water heater and keep it running efficiently.
If you have an outdoor faucet, disconnect the hose. Disconnect and drain your faucet and hose before winter sets in. This will help prevent your outdoor faucet from freezing and bursting.
Schedule a professional maintenance visit from Allen Service in Fort Collins, Colorado. This will help catch any potential issues before they become major problems.

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your plumbing safe and functioning properly all winter long!

Things Not to Do With Your Plumbing

As the weather gets colder, it’s important to take some extra care of your plumbing and water heater to prevent problems. Here are some things to avoid doing with your plumbing and water heater to prevent issues from arising.

Don’t pour any kind of oil or fat down your drains. This can solidify and cause clogs.
Don’t use chemical drain cleaners to unclog your drains. These are harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes. Instead, try using a plunger or a plumbing snake to clear the clog.
Don’t forget about your water heater! Be sure to flush it out regularly and keep it well maintained to prevent any problems.

Signs Your Water Heater and Plumbing Need Service

If you’re having issues with your water heater or plumbing, it’s important to get them fixed as soon as possible. Here are four signs that indicate you may need professional help:

You’re not getting any hot water.
Your water pressure is low.
There are leaks in your pipes or fittings.
Your drains are backing up.

Don’t Delay When You See Signs That Your Water Heater Needs Attention

If you see any signs that your water heater is not functioning properly, it is important to call a professional for service as soon as possible. Delaying service can lead to several problems, including:

Your water heater may break down completely.
You may be without hot water for an extended period.
You may incur additional costs for repairs if the problem gets worse.
You may be putting yourself and your family at risk if there are safety issues with the water heater.

So, if you see any signs that your water heater needs service, don’t delay–call a professional at Allen Service right away!

What to Do if Your Pipes Freeze

If your pipes freeze, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem. First, turn off the water to your home if possible. This will help prevent any further damage from occurring. Next, try thawing the pipes with a hairdryer or by wrapping them in towels soaked in hot water. You can also try using a space heater to thaw the pipes. If none of these methods work, you may need to call a plumber at Allen Service to come and take a look at the problem.

Contact the Plumbing Pros at Allen Service in Fort Collins

If you’re experiencing any of these problems, don’t hesitate to call on the master plumbers at Allen Service in Fort Collins, Colorado for assistance. Our team will be able to diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action to take. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional help when dealing with plumbing issues. Contact our team today to get help with your plumbing winterization.

Fall Water Heater and Plumbing Hints and Tips