With winter on the way in New Jersey, we need to understand how it can have a significant impact on plumbing systems. The cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze, which can lead to bursting and significant water damage. To prevent this, it’s important to take certain precautions.

One of the most important things to do is to insulate pipes, especially those that are located in unheated areas such as attics, crawl spaces, and garages. This can be done with foam insulation or electrical heating tape. It’s also important to seal any gaps or cracks in the walls or foundation that may allow cold air to come into contact with pipes.

Another potential problem during the winter is a loss of water pressure. This can be caused by frozen pipes, but it can also be caused by a drop in the water table or by a malfunctioning well pump. To prevent this, it’s important to make sure that pipes are properly insulated and that well pumps are properly maintained.

If pipes do freeze, it’s important to thaw them as quickly as possible. This can be done by applying heat to the pipe, such as with a hair dryer or a heat lamp. However, it’s important to be careful not to overheat the pipe, as this can cause it to burst. It’s also important to turn off the water supply to the affected pipe to prevent water damage once the pipe thaws.

It’s also important to be aware of the potential for flooding during the winter. This can be caused by heavy snow or ice buildup, which can clog gutters and downspouts. To prevent this, it’s important to keep gutters and downspouts clean and to make sure that they are properly pitched to allow water to flow away from the house. It’s also important to make sure that the ground around the house is sloped away from the foundation to prevent water from pooling near the house.

Overall, it’s important to take winter weather into account when it comes to plumbing. By taking the necessary precautions, such as insulating pipes and keeping gutters and downspouts clear, homeowners can prevent problems such as frozen pipes and water damage. However, if a problem does occur, it’s important to address it as quickly as possible to minimize damage.

For more information, contact Vinny’s Jersey Plumbing, located in Wayne, New Jersey.  We also service several other towns in New Jersey, including Bergenfield, West Orange and Paramus.