Prevent Winter Plumbing Problems in Your Spokane Home

It's a little unsettling to think about, isn't it? A pipe bursting in the middle of January. Water gushing everywhere, and then – that bill. In Spokane, with winters that bite hard, this isn’t just some far-off worry. It's a real possibility every year. We're talking frozen pipes, drains choked with ice, even your water heater giving up the ghost right when you need it most. No one wants that. The cost and the sheer hassle are enough to make anyone's teeth chatter. But you don't have to just wait for it to happen. Some simple steps taken now, and you can really reduce the risk. Let's get started, shall we?

If you're a homeowner in Spokane looking for reliable plumbing services to ensure your home is winter-ready, look no further than Shaw Plumbing Services. Their expertise in Spokane's unique climate and plumbing needs makes them an invaluable partner in protecting your home.

Spokane winters, well, they’re Spokane winters. You know. Brutal cold snaps that can turn any exposed pipe into an ice bomb waiting to go off. And it's not just the deep freeze. The constant freeze-thaw cycle is tough on your pipes, expanding and contracting the water inside, weakening them over time. Ground frost? That can push against your foundation and mess with outdoor pipes. Think about it: every year after that first really hard freeze, plumbers get slammed with calls. You don't want to be one of them.

Especially at risk are pipes in poorly insulated spots, like attics, basements, or those spots where pipes run through an exterior wall. They just aren't protected as well.

Alright, time to roll up your sleeves a little. Before the snow flies, give your plumbing a good once-over. Here’s what to check:

• Exposed Pipes: Look for any cracks, leaks, or corrosion. Check under your sinks, down in the basement, even crawlspaces. Any drips you haven't noticed before?

• Insulation: Attics, crawl spaces, basements – make sure your insulation is in good shape and where it should be. If it's damp or falling apart, replace it, quick. Insulation really matters. Learn more about insulation types and R-values for optimal protection.

• Outdoor Spigots: Give them a close look. Dripping? Not sealed right? Outside faucets can freeze fast, so pay attention here.

• Water Heater Relief Valve: Test it. It’s important for safety. If it's not working like it should, get it fixed. Better safe than sorry. Consult your water heater's manual for specific testing instructions.

• Sump Pump (If You Have One): Is it draining okay? Make sure the discharge line isn't blocked. We get a lot of moisture here in Spokane. Regular sump pump maintenance is crucial to prevent basement flooding.

• Gutters: Clean them out. Clogged gutters lead to ice dams. Ice dams cause roof damage, and that can cause water to back up into your home. Not good. Read up on ice dam prevention techniques.

• Main Shut-Off Valve: Know where it is. And make sure everyone else in your house does too. In a burst-pipe situation, you want to cut off the water supply fast.

Take a walk around your house. Notice any drafty areas? Uninsulated pipes? Cold air moving in is a sign that heat is escaping and your pipes could be at risk.

Okay, inspection done. Now’s the time to get to work. Here’s what to do to get your house ready:

• Outdoor Hoses: Disconnect them. Drain them. Store them inside. And turn off the water to those outside spigots. There's usually a shut-off valve inside.

• Pipe Insulation: Wrap your exposed pipes. Foam pipe insulation is pretty cheap and easy to install. Rubber insulation is another good option – it's flexible and durable.

• Heat Tape: Got some pipes that always seem to get cold? Consider heat tape or heat cables. Follow the instructions carefully. And look for the kind with a thermostat. Heat tape with thermostats is highly recommended to prevent fires.

• Exterior Walls: If you have pipes in an exterior wall, make sure that wall is insulated properly.

• Water Heater: Old water heaters can fail during the winter. If yours is ancient, you might think about upgrading. Also, flush out any sediment in the tank.

• Weather Stripping: Seal up cracks around doors and windows near plumbing.

Alright, sometimes you can handle things yourself, and sometimes it's just smart to call a professional. Simple things, like insulating exposed pipes or disconnecting your garden hose? Go for it. But if you're talking about replacing a water heater, or anything electrical, that's usually best left to a licensed plumber. And honestly, if you just aren't comfortable working with plumbing, don't hesitate to call someone. Consider searching for "licensed plumbers in Spokane" to find a qualified professional.

Even with the best prep work, pipes can still freeze. Here’s what to do:

• Signs: Low water pressure, frost on the pipes, maybe even a weird smell. Pay attention to those clues.

• Thawing: Open cabinet doors to let warm air get to the pipes. Use a space heater or a hair dryer on a low setting to gently warm the frozen pipe. Start near the faucet and work your way back.

• What NOT to Do: Never use an open flame! Don't use a torch. Extremely dangerous.

• Call a Plumber: If you can't thaw the pipe yourself, or if you think a pipe has already burst, call a plumber immediately.

• Shut Off the Water: If a pipe does burst, shut off the main water line to minimize the damage. Every second counts. Learn how to shut off your main water line before an emergency.

Winterizing isn’t a one-and-done thing. It takes some upkeep. Here's how:

• Open Cabinet Doors: During really cold spells, open those cabinet doors under your sinks.

• Dripping Faucets: Let your faucets drip a little when it's super cold. It keeps the water moving and prevents pressure from building up.

• Check Insulation: Make sure your insulation and seals are still holding up.

• Monitor Water Pressure: Notice any changes in water pressure? Could be a sign of trouble brewing.

• Mid-Season Checkup (Optional): Consider having a plumber come out for a quick checkup in the middle of winter.

Really, the best way to avoid a winter plumbing disaster is to be proactive. By taking the steps in this article, you can protect your home, save some money, and just have one less thing to worry about this winter. Don’t wait for that first hard freeze! Start now. Put it on your fall checklist every year. A little work now can prevent a major headache later.

I know, getting ready for winter in Spokane can feel like a chore. But taking these steps will give you real peace of mind. Knowing your home is protected from the worst the weather can throw at it is worth the effort.