Plumbing Issues Related to Colorado’s Cold Weather

The winters in our area of Colorado can get very cold and snowy. This extreme weather can cause issues with your plumbing, so you do have to be careful. Fall is the right time to prepare your plumbing system for the upcoming season. Being proactive can help you prevent disastrous situations in the future.

Frozen Outdoor Pipes

Many properties in Brighton have outdoor spigots and possibly irrigation lines. Those are great to have in the warmer months, but when the temperature drops below freezing, any water left in them can freeze. Since water expands when it freezes, the resulting ice can cause spigots and pipes to crack or burst. To prevent this problem from happening, disconnect hoses and drain any water lines that are outdoors. Also, turn off the valve from inside to the outdoors, and consider covering your hose bibs to protect them further. At Royal Services, we’d be happy to help you with this type of fall preparation.

Frozen Indoor Pipes

It can get so cold in Brighton that even indoor pipes can freeze. Pipes freezing indoors might not happen that often, but it is possible, especially if you have plumbing in areas that aren’t heated or along exterior walls. If the water inside your pipes freezes, the pipes could get damaged. There could be a significant water leak when the water starts flowing again, or a frozen section of pipe might reduce or block the water flow from your sink or shower. To prevent this problem, you can have your pipes insulated. If there are pipes inside a cabinet, you can open up the cabinet at night to expose the pipes to the warmth of your home. Finally, if a frigid night is in the forecast, you could leave your faucets on so that water slowly drips from them. A drop of water now and then can be enough movement for the water inside the pipe to stay liquid.

What To Do In Case of Emergency

If your pipes freeze and break, the best thing to do is immediately turn off the main water supply. This action will ensure that water doesn’t keep coming, potentially leaking into your home and causing damage. It doesn’t take much water to damage electronics; water can also damage flooring, furniture, and other items. Be sure to clean the water up quickly to prevent mold or mildew from developing and further issues. Also, you’ll want to call for emergency help from a local plumber as soon as you can.

Be Careful This Winter

Before the weather drops, you prepare for the potential plumbing issues that could arise. If you have any questions or need help, call Royal Services