September 25/2021

Winter Plumbing Maintenance Tips for New Jersey Residents

Winter is right around the corner and New Jersey residents know how cold it gets up here. Though you might have gotten used to the cold, your plumbing system may not be ready for the freeze. Fortunately, your friends here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey have you covered with some winter plumbing maintenance tips. You can take care of some of these on your own, but others might call for special experience, expertise, and equipment. The dedicated plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing are always ready to help. We can schedule an appointment or even arrange an emergency dispatch.

Tip 1: Keep A Dripping Faucet

Let’s start with something easy and extremely effective. If you expect temperatures to drop below freezing overnight or while you are away from home, then turn on a faucet to drip. This will keep water flowing which will reduce the risk of water freezing in the pipes. For outdoor faucets, we recommend you turn them off and drain out any water in the pipe by opening the bleeder cap. While you are out there, make sure to disconnect the hoses and store them inside for the winter.

Tip 2: Open Cabinets

The sight of open cabinets might not be a great one, but this tip will help keep pipes warm. Don’t worry. We are not talking about all of the cabinets. Only open the cabinets that hide pipes. This will allow heat to flow to them and help prevent freezing.

Tip 3: Keep the House Warm

If you are planning to go on vacation or a trip over the winter, then don’t turn the heater off. We are not telling you to set the thermostat to room temperature but keep the home’s temperature no lower than 45 degrees Fahrenheit. This should help keep your pipes from freezing and rupturing – a damage that will cost much greater than the energy costs of keeping the thermostat above freezing level.

Tip 4: Insulate the Pipes

The goal is to keep the pipes warm, so this tip should come as no surprise. Don’t worry – you do not have to insulate all of the pipes. We just recommend you add pipe insulation on exposed pipes. These are the ones that are found in the basement, along exterior walls, and outside the building, including the crawl space if you have one. Don’t stress about getting into the crawl space. Sealing off the area with thick cardboard and duct tape should be enough to prevent cold air from entering the space.

Tip 5: Drain Your Water Heater Tank

This is not necessarily a winter task, but it is something you should do at least once a year to prevent sediment buildup in the tank. This sediment can make way for rust and other damage to the water heater.

Tip 6: Repair Plumbing Leaks

A leaking pipe can turn into a ruptured pipe very quickly. If that area freezes and expands, you can end up dealing with a burst pipe. Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey to repair plumbing leaks as soon as possible. Our qualified plumbers in Old Bridge are always ready to help.