When winter hits Middle Tennessee, it doesn’t just bring chilly temps and the occasional snow flurry. It also puts your plumbing system to the test. Frozen pipes, burst lines, and unexpected leaks can turn your cozy holiday season into a costly mess. At Roscoe Brown, we believe a little preparation goes a long way. That’s why we’re sharing our top DIY winter plumbing maintenance tips to help you protect your home before the real cold kicks in.
1. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Water left in hoses can freeze, expand, and back up into your pipes. That pressure can lead to serious damage. Disconnect garden hoses, drain them, and store them indoors. Also, consider adding insulated faucet covers for extra protection.
2. Know Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
In the event of a pipe burst, every second counts. Make sure you know where your main shut-off valve is located. It’s typically near where the water line enters your home, often in a crawl space, basement, or utility closet.
3. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas like garages, basements, or crawl spaces are more likely to freeze. Pick up some foam pipe insulation at your local hardware store. It’s inexpensive, easy to install, and could save you a fortune in repairs.
4. Keep a Trickle Running
When temperatures drop into the 20s or below, let a slow drip of cold water run from the faucet farthest from your main line. This keeps water moving and helps prevent freezing.
5. Check Your Water Heater
Winter is not the time to find out your water heater is on the fritz. Flush your tank to remove sediment buildup and check for leaks. If you’re not sure what to look for, we’re just a call away.
6. Seal the Gaps
Cold air sneaking in through cracks or gaps near pipes increases the risk of freezing. Seal those spots with caulk or spray foam insulation to keep the warmth in and the cold out.
7. Get a Pro Inspection
There’s DIY, and then there’s peace of mind. A professional plumbing inspection from Roscoe Brown covers everything from hidden leaks to insulation upgrades. We’ll make sure your system is winter-ready before trouble starts.
Middle Tennessee winters can be unpredictable. Your plumbing doesn’t have to be. These winter plumbing maintenance tips are simple to handle and can help you avoid cold-weather headaches.
Want us to take a look before the next cold snap? We’re available 24/7 for plumbing repairs. Holidays included.
