Preparing Your Pipes for Aussie Winters
Properly preparing your pipes for the winter season can help you avoid the hassle and expensive repairs associated with frozen or burst pipes.
Here are some essential tips to help you protect your pipes and keep your plumbing in top shape during the colder months.
1. Protect Your Pipes Through Insulation
Properly insulating your pipes is a highly effective method to avoid freezing. Concentrate on pipes in unheated sections such as basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces. You can use foam pipe insulation or fibreglass wraps to shield the pipes from exposure.
This step aids in maintaining warmth and preventing the water within the pipes from freezing.
2. Seal Cracks and Gaps
Inspect your home for cracks or gaps that might let cold air in, especially around windows,
doors, and pipes entering your home. Seal up those gaps with caulk or weatherstripping to keep
the cold air away from your pipes. This straightforward measure can help lower the chances of
your pipes freezing.
3. Keep the Heat On
Even if you plan to be away from home for an extended period, keeping your heating system on
is essential. Set your thermostat to at least 10°C to ensure your pipes remain above freezing
temperatures. Also, keep the cabinet doors under sinks open so the pipes can benefit from
warm air circulation.
4. Let Taps Drip
Allowing your taps to drip slightly can prevent pipes from freezing. Running water, even at a
trickle, helps relieve pressure in the pipes and reduces the likelihood of them bursting. This is
especially important for taps connected to exposed pipes.
While letting taps drip can prevent pipe bursts, it does result in water waste. You can reduce this
by gathering the dripping water in a container and utilising it for different tasks like watering
plants or cleaning.
Meanwhile, ensure your drains are clear and functioning correctly to handle the dripping water.
In colder climates, the dripping water could freeze in the drainpipes, causing clogs or backups. If
you suspect your drains might freeze, take extra precautions, like using pipe insulation or
heating cables.
5. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Before the temperature drops, disconnect and drain any outdoor hoses. If left connected, water
inside the hose can freeze and cause the connected pipes to crack. Bring your hoses inside
during winter and turn off the water supply to any outdoor taps.
6. Install Pipe Heating Cables
Consider installing pipe heating cables for pipes that are particularly vulnerable to freezing.
These cables can help keep the pipes warm and are a great way to prevent them from freezing
and getting damaged. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use.
What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency During Winter in Australia
Experiencing a plumbing emergency during the winter can be stressful, but quick action can
help minimise damage and repair costs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do in such
cases:
1. Shut Off the Water Valve
In a plumbing emergency, find the main shut-off valve for your home. It’s usually installed close
to the water metre or where the main water line enters the house. Turn the valve clockwise to
stop the water supply.
2. Drain the Taps
After shutting off the water, it’s crucial to drain any remaining water from the pipes to reduce
pressure and prevent additional leaks or bursts. To do this, open all indoor and outdoor taps
and let the water run out entirely. Doing so will help alleviate the pressure in your plumbing
system and minimise the risk of further damage.
3. Address Frozen Pipes
If you suspect that your pipes have frozen, it’s important to thaw them carefully to prevent them
from bursting.
Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, or warm towels to thaw the pipes slowly. Don’t use open flames or
high heat to prevent pipes from bursting.
During the process, keep the tap open to allow water to flow through and relieve pressure within
the pipe.
4. Call a Professional Plumber
Once you’ve handled a high-risk situation, contact a certified plumber to check out the damage and make any needed fixes. Many plumbers provide emergency services and can react promptly to urgent situations. When calling, give a clear description of the issue and details
about the affected areas to help the plumber prepare for the repair.
Facing a plumbing emergency during winter requires quick and decisive action. With it, you can
mitigate damage and ensure your plumbing system is restored efficiently.
Conclusion
Don’t wait until it’s too late! Start preparing your pipes for Aussie winters today to avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe. For more expert advice and professional plumbing services, contact our team of experienced plumbers. We’re here to help you stay warm and worry-free all winter long!