As valley residents, it is a rare occasion when we get to prepare for cold weather. It seems Tucson residents jump at the chance to whip out their sweaters and boots as soon as the temperatures reach below 80 degrees. Less jump-worthy, however, is preparing your pipes for the cold months. It is common for residents in Tucson and its surrounding areas to make the mistake of skipping the winter preparation process, resulting in uncomfortable and costly future repairs. Your local team of experts at NuFlow Tucson services valley residents with productive and affordable winter pipe preparation. In addition, we want to assist Tucson residents in staying proactive about their pipe health.
Here are some tips for preparing your Tucson pipes for the colder Arizona months:
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Generally, there are a few winter days that are especially cold and require pipe insulation. There are some last-minute ways to insulate exposed pipes such as wrapping them in a towel, but insulation foam is a way to protect them year-round. This will also help you to save money on hot water, as it will no longer have to travel through a freezing cold system.
Repair Leaks
Locating and repairing leaks in your pipes is vital before the cold temps hit. Even the smallest leaks can turn into major problems due to freezing. A professional inspection will help you to locate any leaks in your pipelines and anything else that’s a red flag.
Clean Your Water Heater
Tucson water is notoriously hard – causing a good amount of buildup in your water heater. To save time, money, and increase the functionality of your water heater, have a professional come out to clean and drain it prior to the cold winter months.
Prepare Outdoor Faucets
Commonly overlooked and especially important is preparing your outdoor faucets for cold weather. Even in Tucson, these faucets are susceptible to freezing which can cause serious damage to your plumbing system. To avoid this, disconnect and drain any hoses connected to the faucets (swimming pools, cooling units, etc.). Also, it is a good idea for valley residents to temporarily turn off their supply completely for winter.
Preparing your valley pipes for the winter can seem impractical if you live in sweltering heat almost year-round, but a few simple changes will save you money and extend the lifespan of your system. NuFlow Tucson has experience in all things pipe related and is happy to help you prepare your home for winter in Arizona.
