Sunday, November 15, 2015

Sub-zero Temperatures: Protecting Your Pipes From Winter Bursts

Winter poses a serious risk to pipe systems, whether in the home, at the office, or in industrial sites. Extremely low temperatures cause the pipes to freeze and sometimes even burst. To ensure that water flows freely through the pipes this winter, the following care tips may be followed:  

Good insulation is key.

The loft and the sides of water tanks must be properly insulated to prevent pipes from bursting. This can be done by wrapping them up in lagging (a foam-like insulating material that can be bought at almost all hardware stores).

Image source: enkivillage.com
Artificially controlling the temperature.

 Many modern boilers or vessels have a built-in thermostat that automatically turns on a frost-protection feature once the temperature drops to a certain level. Additionally, it is a good idea to open the loft trap door and any sink cupboards on cold days, so that heat would come in freely.

Image source: suburbanplumbingexperts.com
Proper maintenance will save plenty of bucks.

Checking for leaks, corrosion, valve disruptions, and similar issues are best done on a regular basis. Regardless of the time of the year, a well-maintained pipe system is sure to withstand any trouble, including the harsh elements.  

Consulting with experts.

While it is very okay to work around DIY strategies, it would still be best to seek an expert’s advice to be fully protected. A contractor, for example, can check on the roof to see if it would sustain the weight of heavy snowfall.

Chris Keehner is a respected business expert in the pipes and steel industry. He is the current president of DS Pipe & Steel Supply LLC. Know more about the company by visiting its official website.