Getting Ready for the Winter Plumber Winterization in Massachusetts
Boston, MA (PRWEB) October 31, 2013 -- Burst and frozen pipes are some of the top calls plumbers in MA receive over the next few months. It should come as no surprise that such a call can end up costing homeowners and businesses a pretty penny. However, as local plumbers at York Plumbing & Drains advise, these calls do not have to happen. Even through the harshest of New England winters, there are steps people can take to avoid their pipes freezing or bursting.
One think to homeowners need to keep in mind, York Plumbing & Drains advises, is the pipes outside of their home. Some homes—especially older homes—have pipes leading up from the ground and into the house. These pipes are left exposed to the elements. They need to be protected. It is relatively inexpensive to take care of this. Pipe insulating foam is available at most hardware and home improvement stores. Simply cut to size and wrap around the pipes, fasten with zip ties, and the job is done.
Many people have also moved over toward automated climate control units as a way to save money. This way, while everyone is away while at work and school, the heater isn’t heating a home to a comfortable level. It will turn back on just before everyone returns. The temperature is often lowered for late at night and early morning hours when everyone is sleeping under the covers. It is important not to turn off the heat completely, though. Homes should be kept at a temperature of at least 55 degrees even while no one is home. This will help to avoid the air from getting too cold in the house and pipes freezing.
It is important, even with plumbing tips like these, to keep in mind what to do if the weather does get the better of us and causes pipes to freeze or burst. Know where the emergency shutoff valves for the water are. There should be a main shut off valve near where the water comes into the house—typically outside by the water meter or just inside, in the basement. Many parts of the house may have their own shut off valves as well, specifically for a water heater, tub, sink, etc. Knowing where these are will help homeowners to reduce damage in the even there is a burst pipe.
Cameron Corniuk, My Local Leads, http://www.mylocalleads.com, +1 (440) 853-8104, [email protected]
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