Preparing for Winter: Protect Your Plumbing Before the Cold Hits
(Part 1 of a 3-Part Winter Plumbing Series from Gideon’s Plumbing)
As the cold weather settles in across Buffalo, Amherst, Orchard Park, and Hamburg, homeowners start thinking about cozy nights indoors and hot cocoa by the fire. But before winter arrives in full force, there’s something else that needs attention. It is your home’s plumbing.
Freezing temperatures can lead to burst pipes, water damage, and costly repairs if you’re not prepared. At Gideon’s Plumbing, we specialize in helping Western New York homeowners protect their plumbing systems with excellent service, expert repairs, and new installs designed to handle our region’s harsh winters.
Here are some essential steps you can take now to prepare your plumbing for the season ahead.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes that run through unheated spaces like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are at risk of freezing when the temperature drops. Insulating these pipes is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent problems. Foam pipe insulation or heat tape can make a big difference.
If you’re not sure where your vulnerable pipes are, call Gideon’s Plumbing for a professional inspection. We’ll identify any trouble spots and ensure your pipes are winter-ready.
2. Check and Service Your Water Heater
Nothing’s worse than running out of hot water in the middle of a Buffalo snowstorm. Make sure your water heater is ready to perform all winter long by having it inspected before the temperatures dip. Sediment buildup can make your system less efficient, and old units may struggle to keep up with demand.
Our plumbers can handle repairs, maintenance, or new installs of energy-efficient water heaters that keep your showers warm and your energy bills manageable all season long.
3. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Faucets
Outdoor faucets and hose bibs are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Before the first hard frost, disconnect all hoses, drain the water, and shut off the outdoor supply line if your home has one.
If you’re unsure how to locate your shut-off valves or suspect a leak, Gideon’s Plumbing can help. We’ll make sure your outdoor plumbing is properly winterized to prevent burst pipes and flooding in spring.
4. Inspect for Leaks and Drips
Even a small leak can cause big trouble when temperatures drop. Leaks allow water to collect and freeze inside pipes, leading to cracks or bursts. Before winter sets in, do a walkthrough of your home and check under sinks, around toilets, and behind appliances for signs of moisture or corrosion.
If you find anything suspicious, don’t wait. Our Buffalo and Hamburg plumbing team offers fast, reliable repairs to stop leaks before they turn into disasters.
5. Know Where Your Main Shut-Off Valve Is
If a pipe does burst, every minute counts. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the main water shut-off valve is located and how to use it. Shutting off the water quickly can minimize damage and save you thousands in repairs.
At Gideon’s Plumbing, we can show you how to locate and operate your shut-off valve during a home safety inspection, a service we recommend every homeowner schedule before the winter months.
Stay Tuned for Part 2: Preventing Frozen Pipes
This is just the beginning of our Winter Plumbing Series! In Part 2, we’ll focus on preventing and thawing frozen pipes safely and effectively.
Until then, don’t wait for the temperature to drop before taking action. Call Gideon’s Plumbing today to schedule your winter plumbing checkup. From repairs to new installs, we proudly serve Buffalo, Amherst, Orchard Park, and Hamburg with honest advice, reliable workmanship, and the excellent service our customers count on year after year.
Prepare now. Stay warm. Avoid winter plumbing problems.
Trust Gideon’s Plumbing, your local experts for every season in Western New York.