External plumbing pipes are prone to get damaged during winter. It’s because water freezes and turns into ice due to cold winds. So, pipes may burst due to this added pressure. But you can avoid this costly damage if you winterize plumbing before the beginning of the winter season.
Below freezing temperatures can damage exterior plumbing. So, your best bet is to drain and winterize your exterior plumbing.
To begin the task, first collect and organize the following supplies and equipment:
- Insulated outdoor faucet covers
- Safety gloves
- Protective mask
- Faucet repair materials (as per your requirement)
- Air compressor
Winterize Plumbing: Steps
Winterize Plumbing: Step#1
First, locate the main water valve and shut it down. Next, turn off your water heater and water pump to protect them from potential damages.
Step#2
The next step is to open all taps and drain valves in your home to discharge water.
Step#3
When you turn off valves, some amount of water may already be present in pipes. You need to blow this excess water out of the pipes. For this purpose, it’s better to use an air compressor.
Step#4
Then you need to pay attention to your hot water tank. It’s because this tank is more susceptible to winter damage. Hence, open the valve in your hot water tank and let the water discharge until it is empty. Also, drain all water that is present in the holding tank.
Step#5
Similarly, plumbing in the toilet can also freeze during winters. This is why you should flush the toilet to winterize pipes. With this step, you should remove as much water as you can from toilet bowls and tanks.
Step#6 to Winterize Plumbing
Lastly, check all tub and sink drains in your house which could have drain traps. You should add some antifreeze to each of them to prevent water from cracking and freezing in these traps.