Insulate Exposed Pipes

One of the most critical steps in winterizing plumbing is protecting any exposed pipes found around your home. Even though Texas winters aren’t as brutal as those in northern states, temperatures can still drop low enough to freeze pipes, especially those outside or in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces, or attics. Insulated pipe sleeves, heat tape, and even foam rubber insulation can provide much-needed warmth for these vulnerable water pipes.

Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Faucets

In colder temperatures, water can expand as it freezes, potentially causing outdoor faucets and pipes to crack or burst. Protect your home (and your budget) from costly repairs by following these steps to shut off and drain outdoor faucets:

• Locate the Shut-Off Valve: Find the shut-off valve for each outdoor faucet. These are typically located inside the home near where the pipe exits the wall, often in a basement, crawl space, or utility room. Turn off the water supply to each outdoor faucet.
• Open the Faucet: Once the water is turned off, go outside and open the faucet fully. This allows any remaining water to drain out, preventing it from freezing in the pipes.
• Install a Faucet Cover: For added protection, cover each outdoor faucet with an insulated faucet cover. These are readily available at hardware stores and provide a layer of insulation against the cold.

Disconnect and Put Away Outdoor Hoses

Outdoor hoses may be easy to overlook, but leaving them connected during winter can cause freezing within the pipes connected to your home. If the conditions get bad enough, you may end up with burst pipes and water damage on your hands. After disconnecting and draining any hoses, store them in a shed or garage to protect them from the elements.

Shut Off and Drain Sprinkler Systems

Many Texas homes have sprinkler systems to maintain lush lawns, but these systems need special attention during the winter months. Shutting off and draining your sprinklers is a key part of preparing your plumbing for winter. If you’re not confident in the process of winterizing your sprinkler system, reach out to a local professional for help.

Check for Leaks and Make Repairs

While preparing your plumbing for winter, take time to inspect your home for leaks or small plumbing issues. Cold weather can cause pipes to expand and contract, potentially aggravating minor problems and causing a host of issues.

Check under sinks, around toilets, and in any unheated areas where leaks might go unnoticed. A slow leak can turn into a burst pipe quickly in cold weather. To ensure you don’t miss a single thing, schedule a leak detection service and let our team put our advanced equipment to good use. Even if you only find a small leak, get it addressed before the winter weather rears its ugly head. The repairs are usually inexpensive and can save you from facing a major plumbing issue later. Our team at GEI will ensure any broken pipes are promptly dealt with.

Drain and Insulate the Water Heater

Taking steps to prepare your water heater for winter can extend its life and improve efficiency. Since these units are often stored in garages or utility rooms, they may be exposed to cold temperatures that force them to work harder. In this case, insulating and tuning up your water heater can reduce energy costs while enhancing the performance of the unit.

Before winter, drain your water heater to remove any sediment that could interfere with heating. Then, wrap your water heater in a specialized insulation blanket, which helps reduce heat loss and prevents the tank from overworking when temperatures drop.

Know Where the Shut-Off Valve Is

In the event of a plumbing emergency, such as a burst or frozen pipe, you’ll want to act quickly. Knowing where your home’s main shut-off valve is located can prevent a plumbing disaster from escalating. It may be located in the basement, crawl space, or where the water line enters the home.

If you haven’t used the valve in a while, make sure it turns easily. Applying a little lubricant to the valve can make it easier to turn in an emergency.

Drip Faucets on Very Cold Nights

If a particularly cold night is in the forecast, one way to prevent frozen pipes is to let faucets drip slightly. This keeps water moving through the pipes, reducing the chance of freezing and relieving pressure that might otherwise build up and cause a pipe to burst.

Be sure to run the cold water instead of hot, as it’s less expensive and can help protect pipes better. Additionally, faucets located on exterior walls or in unheated parts of your home should be the focus of this method, as they’re most at risk.

Check Outdoor Drains and Gutters

Another aspect of winterizing plumbing that’s often overlooked is making sure that your outdoor drains and gutters are clear. Debris can clog these, leading to water pooling around your home and potentially freezing near your foundation or basement. Clear leaves, dirt, and any other debris from your outdoor drains and gutters.

Get Your Plumbing Ready for Winter Right Now!

Preparing your plumbing system for winter might not seem like a top priority in Texas, but it can save you from costly repairs and unexpected plumbing issues when the temperature drops. By taking these steps to winterize your plumbing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’ve done everything you can to prevent your water lines from freezing and leaving you with an unsightly mess.

If you’d like expert assistance with preparing your plumbing for winter, reach out to the experienced team at GEI Plumbing Services. We would be more than happy to ensure your system is ready to handle whatever winter brings. Contact us today for professional plumbing repair services that you can count on!

Common Causes of Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can make everyday tasks like washing dishes, doing laundry, or taking a shower frustrating. Fortunately, identifying the causes of low water pressure is the first step toward finding a solution.

Several factors can contribute to low water pressure in your home. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors:

1. Clogged Pipes and Mineral Buildup

One of the most common reasons for low water pressure is clogged pipes. Over time, mineral deposits can accumulate inside your plumbing, gradually restricting water flow. This is especially common in areas with hard water, where minerals like calcium and magnesium are abundant. The mineral buildup clogs pipes and can drastically reduce water pressure throughout your home. Fortunately, you can address the problem with routine drain cleaning and prevent future issues with a water softener installation.

Older galvanized steel pipes are also particularly susceptible to clogs. As these pipes age, they can corrode from the inside, adding to the problem of mineral buildup. If you live in an older home with galvanized pipes, it may be necessary to replace the aging pipes with newer materials like copper or PVC.

2. Faulty Pressure Regulator

A pressure regulator is a valve that ensures your home’s water pressure stays within a safe and consistent range. If you have a broken or failing pressure regulator, you might notice your water pressure suddenly drop or spike.

A faulty pressure regulator is a common cause of low water pressure, and a simple test with a water pressure gauge can help determine if this is the problem. If the gauge shows a pressure reading below normal levels, it may be time to replace the regulator. A plumber can install a new pressure regulator to restore proper water pressure in your home.

3. Leaking Pipes

Leaks are another common cause of low water pressure. When water is escaping from your plumbing pipes through a leak, less water makes it to your faucets, resulting in reduced water flow. Leaks can occur in any part of your home’s piping system, from main water lines to branch lines that serve specific fixtures.

Keep an eye out for signs of leaking pipes, such as damp spots on walls or ceilings, unexplained increases in your water bill, mold growth, or the sound of running water when all fixtures are turned off. If you notice any of these problems, call a qualified professional for a plumbing repair right away.

4. Partially Closed Valves

Sometimes, the solution to low water pressure is simpler than you might think. Check your main shut-off valve and water meter valve to ensure they’re fully open. These valves control the water flow into your home, and if they’re partially closed, they can severely restrict water flow.

It’s not uncommon for these valves to be accidentally left partially closed after plumbing repairs or maintenance. A quick inspection and adjustment could potentially restore proper water pressure to your home.

5. Municipal Water Supply Issues

If your entire neighborhood seems to be experiencing low water pressure, the problem could be with your municipal water supply. High demand or maintenance work on the main city supply pipe can temporarily affect your home’s water pressure. Contact your water supply company to inquire about any ongoing issues in your area.

6. Clogged Fixtures

In some cases, low water pressure might be isolated to specific fixtures rather than affecting your entire home. Shower heads, faucet aerators, and other plumbing fixtures can become clogged with mineral deposits over time, restricting water flow.

Regularly cleaning or replacing these fixtures can help maintain proper water flow and pressure. For shower heads, soaking them in vinegar can often dissolve mineral buildup and restore normal function.

7. Outdated Plumbing System

If your home is older, its entire piping system might be due for an upgrade. Older plumbing systems, especially those with galvanized steel pipes, can develop numerous issues over time that contribute to poor water pressure. Corrosion, pipe narrowing, and an accumulation of years of mineral buildup can all play a part. Upgrading to modern copper pipes or PEX tubing can significantly improve your home’s water pressure and overall plumbing performance.

8. Problems With Your Water Heater

For issues specifically related to hot water pressure, your water heater might be the source of the problem. Sediment buildup in the tank can restrict water flow, leading to reduced pressure in your hot water lines. Regular maintenance of your water heater, including flushing the tank annually, can help prevent these issues.

Call the Professionals at GEI to Restore Water Pressure

While some causes of low water pressure can be addressed by homeowners, many require the expertise of a professional plumber. If you’ve tried basic troubleshooting and still can’t identify or resolve the issue, it’s time to seek help.

GEI Plumbing Services specializes in diagnosing and fixing a wide range of plumbing issues, including low water pressure problems. Our experienced technicians can quickly identify the root cause of your water pressure woes and implement effective solutions. Contact us today to schedule a water line service and get your water flowing again.