Preventing a winter plumbing emergency

Winter plumbing emergencies occur every year to Sydney homes that are unprepared. Not only is this an inconvenience to those living in your home, but the constant pressure of the frozen pipes could cause damage and require the attention of the plumber. Here are some simple ways to take care of your pipes as the temperature outside drops.

While not a common occurrence in central Sydney, pipes can freeze during the cold winter nights. This generally happens when sink pipes are installed on the outside wall of the home so that there is more room for people to move around the kitchen with ease. A simple way to counteract this problem is to open your cabinet doors. This will to allow the room temperature flow through the walls and will prevent the pipes from freezing up. If freezing pipes is a concern in your Sydney home then space heaters can also be placed next to the open cabinet doors. This way the kitchen will stay somewhat warm and the area under the sink will too.

Another method of preventing your pipes from freezing over is pipe insulation. Available at most property and hardware shops these pipe insulations are easily applied and wrap right onto the pipe. This causes the water inside to stay at an above freezing temperature. Washing your dishes late at night is another measure to make sure your pipes stay nice and cool. The logic behind this is that lakes freeze over but waterfalls never do.  

Making sure your pipes function properly is a great way to prevent an unexpected plumbing break down. Regular maintenance ensures that your pipes and appliances, such as your water heater and metre are all in working order and will work to the best of their abilities. Broken pipes can wreak havoc especially in winter when the air is not warm enough to evaporate moisture. Not only would this result in mold but unforeseen health issues from inhaling the mold.

If you’ve located your leak and have placed a temporary patch, or you have tried locating your leak but are unsuccessful, give GF James Plumbing a call on 02 96491099. We’ll be happy to walk you through this process over the phone or arrange for a professional to come repair your leaking pipe. .

To learn more about the Author : Geoff James