Australia is typically associated with scorching temperatures and hot summers. Melbourne locals will, however, know that some parts can boast winters that can be quite cold, with temperatures going as low as 6 degrees. Cooler temperatures don’t only affect you but your plumbing as well.

Homeowners living in the colder areas often have to call the plumber Melbourne residents use to deal with frozen pipes and faulty water heaters. This post takes a look at a few things you can do to make sure that your plumbing doesn’t act up in the winter.

Prepare Your Plumbing for the Colder Months

Plumbing issues can be annoying under the best of conditions. However, they can be more challenging to deal with in the cooler months when you have to contend with icy temperatures as well. You can reduce the risk of this by ensuring that the plumbing most at risk is serviced and maintained before the cold sets in. Here’s how. 

1. Check and Test Your Water Heater

If there’s one thing you need to be working 100% in your home in the winter, it’s your water heater. Nothing says freezing quite like a cold shower at the end of a busy day. No matter how new or well-maintained your water heater is, you will still need to ensure that it’s working correctly as winter approaches. 

Always keep the following tips in mind when you’re checking your water heater:

• Water temperature should be consistent at its regular setting.
• Check for leaks around your water heater.
• For older gas heaters, check if the pilot light is still on.

Any of these issues will be a clear indication that there may be a problem with the heating element or one of the electrical components. Keep in mind that your water heater should always be repaired by a plumber. 

2. Prevent Outdoor Pipes From Freezing

Freezing pipes is one of the most common issues homeowners in cooler regions have to deal with. When your outdoor pipes freeze, water flow is blocked, which in turn creates pressure build-up. In severe instances, this can lead to pipes bursting. 

This is not only costly to repair but can also cause significant damage, especially if you’re not at home when it happens. Prevent this by doing the following:

• Keep your thermostat setting at a consistent level during the day.
• Open the taps and let some warm water run through the pipes.  If you’re worried about wasting water, catch the water in a bucket and use it elsewhere when it has cooled down. 

3. Insulate Pipes at Risk

Pipes don’t only freeze in the cooler temperatures. Exposure to harsh climates can also cause pipes to become damaged. Cracked pipes will leak and can cause damage to your home or property. 

In some cases, it may be necessary to insulate your pipes by using rubber, insulation foam, or pipe sleeves. All of these can be found on your local hardware. If you’re new to the area, it’s a good idea to speak to your local plumber about the best insulation options to consider. 

Plumbers will also be able to assess whether your pipes need insulation and may even do it to ensure they’re done correctly. It’s also a good idea to add insulation to open spaces in your home, such as attics, crawl spaces, and the roof area. 

4. Keep Gutters and Drains Clean

Another top cause of damaged plumbing stems from clogged gutters, downpipes, and storm drains. Inspecting all sinks, drains, and gutters should always be part of your seasonal maintenance. 

Debris, such as leaves and other organic materials, often get clogged up in these spaces, resulting in overflows and damages. You can use a pressure washer to clear out your gutters, roof space and downpipes. 

If your outdoor drains can’t be cleared using a drain snake or plunger, it’s a good idea to call your plumber to clear them out. Doing this before the winter ensures that the gunk in the drains doesn’t freeze and damage the surrounding plumbing. You can also routinely rinse your drains and sinks with hot water to move any stuck debris along. 

5. Seal Off any Air Leaks

It’s not only the outdoor pipes that can get damaged from freezing temperatures. Cold air can also come into your home through cracks, crevices, and gaps in the window frames. When cold air is continuously blowing on your pipes or other plumbing fixtures, these components can become damaged. 

Use caulk and weatherstrip to seal holes, cracks, and other openings in walls, windows, and the roof. Speak to your plumber about repairing or replacing any old or damaged pipes and other plumbing fixtures. Do this as part of your summer maintenance to avoid issues in the cooler months. 

Final Thoughts

Avoid winter plumbing issues by having features such as the water heater, drains, and pipes checked and maintained. Doing this not only reduces potential inconvenience but can prevent expensive repairs. If you’re not sure how to prepare your plumbing for the cooler months, be sure to check with your plumber for a quick assessment.