While snowfall isn’t common in the South, Atlanta is no stranger to freezing temperatures. Cold weather can put a serious strain on residents' plumbing, leading to burst pipes and flooding.

Luckily, the team at Superior Plumbing has got your back. We’ve created a fall guide that includes tips for protecting your plumbing against the upcoming weather. That way, you can focus on the holiday season without worrying about costly plumbing repairs. 

Flush Your Water Heater

Flushing your water heater prevents sediment from accumulating near the burner. When there’s sediment buildup, your burner has to work harder to effectively heat your water. This excess buildup makes your heater less efficient and may even cause your energy bills to rise. Regular flushing will not only improve efficiency but also prevent corrosion and costly repairs down the line.

Test Your Sump Pump

Having a plumber test your sump pump can prevent flooding during the winter months. While we don’t have to worry about snowfall in Georgia, ice melt can place extra pressure on your sump pump. If your sump pump isn’t in good condition, it can malfunction and cause water to back up into your basement. 

When flooding occurs, it can lead to costly water damage and potential mold growth. Regular testing and maintenance will ensure your sump pump is ready to handle unexpected storms and keep your home protected.

Get Your Gutters Cleaned

Gutters can become clogged if they’re not regularly cleaned. If your gutters are packed with debris like leaves, twigs and pine needles, this buildup can place unnecessary weight on your plumbing system. In addition, a thorough gutter cleaning prevents water pooling and issues with your roof. 

Disconnect Your Outdoor Hoses

It’s very important that homeowners disconnect their plumbing before winter arrives. If your hoses have water inside them during a freeze, the water can expand and cause pipes to burst. These bursts aren’t just stressful, but they can also lead to extensive and costly repairs. Taking the step now can save you significant headaches and protect your plumbing throughout winter.

Shut Off Your Outdoor Faucets

Before winter arrives, it’s crucial to shut off your outdoor faucets to prevent frozen pipes and costly water damage. When temperatures drop, water that’s left inside the faucet or connected pipes can freeze and expand, leading to cracks or full pipe bursts. 

Pipe bursts not only cause flooding but can also damage your faucet and nearby plumbing. By draining the lines ahead of time, you can avoid the stress of emergency plumbing issues during the coldest months.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes located inside your garage, attic or basement are prone to bursting in the winter. To prevent this from happening, you can insulate your pipes. Insulation helps retain warmth and keep out the cold, lowering the likelihood that exposed pipes will burst in cold temperatures. 

For most pipes, you can use a faucet cover to protect them from the cold. However, for hard-to-reach areas, you may want to consider having a licensed plumber oversee the insulation process. 

Additional Tips for Protecting Your Plumbing Year-Round

• Avoid flushing fats, oils and grease – Fats and oils harden as they cool, clogging your pipes in the process. 
• Only flush toilet paper – Non-flushable items like wipes, paper towels and sanitary napkins don’t break down easily and can lead to stubborn clogs
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners –   If you’re trying to remove a blockage, avoid harsh chemicals, as they can corrode your pipes over time. Instead, try vinegar and boiling to dislodge the clog.
• Keep up on routine maintenance – Scheduling regular plumbing inspections helps extend the lifespan of your plumbing and prevents small issues from turning into expensive repairs.

Need a Licensed Plumber? Superior Plumbing Is Here to Help!

If you’re a metro Atlanta homeowner in search of reliable plumbing services, look no further! Superior Plumbing provides comprehensive plumbing services across Metro Atlanta, including Kennesaw and other areas throughout Cobb County.

From drain and sewer repairs to more, our licensed plumbers handle every challenge with precision and care. Call our team today at 770-422-7586 to schedule a consultation or fill out a form online. For more information about winter plumbing tips and trips, check out our blog here.