As temperatures continue to drop in Sydney, keeping your home’s plumbing system in working order becomes more and more crucial with every degree dropped. Although Sydney rarely experiences freezing or sub-zero temperatures, winter weather can still impact your plumbing.
In this blog, we explore 7 simple, effective, do-it-yourself strategies to save money on your water bill, protect your pipes, and ensure your home remains cozy and efficient during the colder winter months.
Insulate Your Pipes
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent any cold weather-related plumbing issues is by insulating your pipes. Use foam sleeves or insulation tape to cover exposed pipes, particularly those in unheated areas like basements or garages. This helps maintain the water temperature and reduces the chances of your pipes cooling down too much, even though they’re unlikely to freeze in Sydney’s climate.
Check and Repair Exterior Taps
Before the cold sets in, ensure that all exterior taps are insulated and in good working condition. Disconnect garden hoses, drain them, and use covers on the taps to prevent any residual water from causing issues. If you have an outdoor irrigation system, consider draining it and shutting it off until spring or when the warmer months return.
Maintain Indoor Temperature
Keeping a consistent indoor temperature during winter can prevent sudden changes that might cause stress and strain on your plumbing system. This doesn’t necessarily mean overheating your home, but rather maintaining a comfortable and steady warmth, especially if you plan to be away for a longer period of time throughout the colder Sydney months. Programmable or smart thermostats can be particularly helpful for managing this without running up your energy bill. With plenty of smart home heating solutions available, you’re able to find the right choice for your home.
Let Taps Drip Overnight
This might seem counter-intuitive, though one way to potentially save money during the coldest nights of winter is by allowing your taps to drip slightly overnight so the water can keep moving – greatly reducing the risk of any pipe issues. This is actually a well-known tip in colder climates but can also be handy in Sydney during unusually cold snaps.
Seal Cracks and Openings
To prevent cold drafts that could affect your indoor plumbing, seal any visible cracks or openings around your home. Use weather stripping or caulk around windows and doors to keep the warm air in and the cold air out, reducing the strain on your heating system and your pipes and allowing the heat that recirculates around your home do the heavy lifting for you.
Heater and Water Heater Servicing
Regular servicing of your heating systems and water heater can prevent breakdowns in general, though this becomes especially critical during the colder months of winter when we need both of these systems to be working at an optimal rate. Ensure your systems are efficient and ready to handle the increased demand of the colder months. This not only ensures longevity but can also save you money in the long run on potentially costly repairs.
Emergency Preparedness
Finally, knowing where your main water shut-off valve is and having a basic emergency kit for your plumbing can save you from potential future disasters. The kit should include items like a plumber’s tape, a plunger, and contact information for your trusted local plumber.
Conclusion
Other than Sydney Water’s helpful guide on water saving tips, these 7 essential steps can help protect your home’s plumbing during Sydney’s winter specifically, helping you save money and avoiding inconvenient breakdowns at the times when we need it most. For more in-depth support, professional plumbing assistance and for all your winter plumbing needs, contact Water Workx Plumbing – your local expert ready to ensure your plumbing is winter-ready.
