As winter envelops Harrisonburg, Virginia, homeowners face the looming threat of frozen pipes amid plunging temperatures. Joe Battista, the owner of Friendly City Plumbing and Heating, finds himself on the front lines of plumbing care with an uptick in service calls related to pipe bursts this season. His experience reveals that a little investment in preventive measures can save homeowners from extensive and costly repairs later on. In this article, we will share essential tips that will help you safeguard your plumbing system this winter, ensuring your home remains warm and your pipes stay intact.

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Key Takeaways

  • Investing in preventive measures for your pipes is more cost-effective than dealing with repairs.
  • Maintain adequate heating in your home during extremely cold temperatures to avoid pipe freezing.
  • If a pipe bursts, immediately turn off the main water valve to minimize damage.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Frozen Pipes

As homeowners in Harrisonburg, Virginia, brace for the impacts of extreme cold, taking proactive steps to prevent frozen pipes is more crucial than ever. Joe Battista, owner of Friendly City Plumbing and Heating, has been on the front lines, witnessing firsthand the havoc that subzero temperatures can wreak on residential plumbing. Battista’s insights come at a vital time, as service calls for pipe breaks jump significantly during extreme weather—historically, winters can see up to 50 incidents. He advises that while there may be some initial costs associated with protecting your pipes, such as insulating exposed pipes and increasing your home’s heating, these preventive measures are far less expensive than dealing with the aftermath of a burst pipe. Homeowners should keep their thermostats elevated, especially when temperatures dip below 15 degrees Fahrenheit or when winter winds intensify. A simple yet effective strategy is to let faucets trickle overnight, which keeps water moving and helps to prevent freezing. In the unfortunate event that a pipe does burst, Battista stresses the necessity of immediately turning off the main water valve and starting the cleanup process promptly to mitigate further damage. By prioritizing these preventive measures now, homeowners can save themselves from stress and costly repairs down the line.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze or Burst

In addition to the suggestions provided by Joe Battista, homeowners in Harrisonburg can further safeguard their plumbing systems by ensuring that any unoccupied spaces in their homes, such as attics or basements, are adequately insulated. Insulation not only keeps these areas warmer but also protects pipes running through them from the bitter cold. It’s also wise to disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and sprinkler systems before winter settles in, as residual water can freeze and expand within the pipes, leading to cracks or bursts. Additionally, consider using heat tape on vulnerable pipes that are particularly susceptible to freezing, providing an extra layer of protection against drastic temperature changes. Regularly checking for any signs of leaks or cracks in exposed plumbing can also help catch potential issues early, preventing costly repairs later. By combining these proactive strategies with Joe Battista’s expert advice, homeowners can create a robust defense against winter’s freeze.

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