Category: Plumbing

In Salt Lake City, UT, the arrival of winter often brings freezing temperatures that can wreak havoc on your home's plumbing. Frozen pipes not only disrupt your water supply but can also lead to burst pipes and expensive water line repairs. While small leaks and repairs are straightforward problems to fix, frozen pipes can be a lot more costly to fix. Ice is less dense than water which causes it to expand.

This expansion is powerful enough to damage the entire length of your pipes in some cases. While in some cases this can be isolated, often vast parts of your piping infrastructure are damaged. To help you safeguard your plumbing system from the perils of freezing temperatures, Valley Plumbing presents eight effective ways to prevent frozen pipes and avoid costly repairs.

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes:

Insulation is your first line of defense against frozen pipes. Identify and insulate all exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawlspaces. Use foam pipe insulation sleeves or heating tape to keep these vulnerable pipes warm.

2. Maintain Consistent Heating:

Consistent heating throughout your home is crucial during cold spells. Keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature, even when you're away. A minimum temperature of 55°F (13°C) helps prevent freezing.

3. Seal Cracks and Gaps:

Seal any gaps or cracks in your home's exterior and foundation. These openings allow cold air to infiltrate, putting your pipes at risk of freezing. Caulk or weatherstripping can effectively seal these areas.

4. Allow Faucets to Drip:

When temperatures drop significantly, allowing faucets to drip slightly can relieve pressure and prevent pipes from freezing. The continuous flow of water, even at a slow rate, can prevent ice buildup.

5. Open Cabinet Doors:

For pipes located under sinks, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around them. This helps maintain a higher temperature around the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.

6. Use Heating Cables:

Heating cables or heat tape can be wrapped around pipes to provide direct warmth and prevent freezing. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation to avoid any mishaps.

7. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Hoses:

Before winter sets in, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses. Additionally, shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain any residual water to prevent freezing and potential burst pipes.

8. Seek Professional Inspection and Repair:

If you suspect frozen pipes or experience reduced water flow, it's crucial to call professionals like Valley Plumbing immediately. They can assess the situation, thaw the pipes safely, and conduct any necessary water line repairs to prevent burst pipes and extensive damage.

Frozen pipes pose a significant threat to your home's plumbing during the winter in Salt Lake City. By taking proactive measures to prevent frozen pipes, such as insulation, consistent heating, and proper maintenance, you can avoid the inconvenience and expense of burst pipes and water line repairs.

However, if you encounter frozen water lines or suspect any issues with your plumbing, don't hesitate to contact Valley Plumbing for prompt inspection and repair services. With these preventive steps and professional assistance, you can protect your home from the damaging effects of frozen pipes this winter.

Colder weather is coming! Winter in Salt Lake City, UT, can be breathtaking, but it also brings its share of challenges, particularly when it comes to plumbing. One of the most common and potentially costly problems homeowners face during the colder months is frozen pipes. When water pipes freeze, the expanding ice can lead to cracks and bursts, causing significant water damage. But don't worry; with a few preventative measures and some expert advice from Valley Plumbing, you can protect your home from the woes of frozen pipes.

1. Insulate Your Home:

Before winter sets in, make sure your home is properly insulated. Focus on areas where water pipes are exposed, like basements, attics, and crawlspaces. Insulating these spaces can help maintain a more stable temperature around your pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.

1. Seal Gaps and Cracks:

Check for gaps and cracks in your home's exterior and foundation. These openings can allow frigid air to infiltrate your living space, making it harder to keep your pipes warm. Seal any gaps with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent the cold from reaching your plumbing.

1. Protect Exposed Pipes:

Exposed pipes are the most vulnerable to freezing. Consider using pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape on these pipes. This extra layer of protection can keep the temperature around your pipes above freezing, even in the coldest conditions.

1. Keep Your Home Warm:

Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature, even when you're away, is crucial. A well-insulated and heated home will help prevent your pipes from freezing. If you plan to be away for an extended period, keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F (13°C).

1. Drip Your Faucets:

When temperatures drop significantly, allowing a slight, continuous drip from your faucets can keep water moving and prevent freezing. This technique can be particularly helpful on extremely cold nights.

1. Call a Plumber:

If you're unsure about the state of your plumbing system or you suspect any issues, it's a wise move to call a professional plumber. Valley Plumbing can inspect your pipes, identify areas of concern, and recommend necessary repairs or insulation.

Preventing frozen pipes in your home is essential to avoid costly and inconvenient damage during the winter months. By taking these precautions and seeking professional assistance from Valley Plumbing when needed, you can keep your pipes warm and your home protected. Remember, the effort you put into preparing your plumbing now can save you a great deal of trouble and expense when the temperatures drop. Protect your pipes, protect your home! Contact us today.

When it comes to plumbing issues, having a reliable and experienced plumber nearby is important. Whether you need a 24-hour emergency plumber to help with a burst pipe, or schedule service for a clogged drain, or a leaky faucet, prompt and efficient services are so important. In Salt Lake City, UT, Valley Plumbing is the trusted name providing a wide range of services. Keep reading to discover why we are the go-to company in Salt Lake City.

1. Emergency Plumbing Solutions:

Plumbing emergencies can strike at any time, and a quick response is essential to minimize damage and inconvenience. Valley Plumbing understands the urgency of such situations and offers reliable emergency services in Salt Lake City, UT. Whether it's a burst pipe, a sewer backup, or a malfunctioning water heater, our team of skilled plumbers is available around the clock to address your emergency plumbing needs promptly and efficiently.

2. Comprehensive Plumbing Services:

Valley Plumbing provides a comprehensive range of services to meet all of your plumbing needs under one roof. From installations and repairs to maintenance and upgrades, our experienced professionals are equipped to handle any task. Whether it's a small residential project or a complex commercial system, we offer reliable and professional services in Salt Lake City, UT.

3. Skilled and Certified Plumbers:

We take pride in our team of skilled and certified plumbers. With years of industry experience and ongoing training, we have the expertise to tackle a wide range of issues effectively. From diagnosing problems to implementing the best solutions, you can trust us to deliver exceptional workmanship and ensure your plumbing system operates smoothly.

4. Cutting-Edge Technology and Tools:

To provide top-notch services, we utilize cutting-edge technology and tools. By staying up to date with the latest industry advancements, we offer efficient and precise solutions to even the most complex plumbing problems. Whether it's using advanced video sewer inspection to locate hidden leaks or employing high-pressure hydro-jetting to clear stubborn clogs, we have the tools and technology to get the job done right.

5. Commitment to Customer Satisfaction:

Valley Plumbing is committed to customer satisfaction and strives to exceed expectations with every service call. We believe in open communication, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer service. By prioritizing customer needs and providing reliable solutions, we have earned a reputation as the go-to plumbers in Salt Lake City, UT.

When you're in need of plumbing services in Salt Lake City, UT, Valley Plumbing is the reliable and trusted name to call. With comprehensive offerings, including emergency solutions, skill, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, don't let plumbing issues disrupt your daily life. Contact Valley Plumbing and experience top-quality service in Salt Lake City, UT.

Stop Wasting Money and Fix Those Leaks! 

Leaks are one of the most common and costly sources of water waste in any household, which can spike water bills. Every drop of water lost to a leaking faucet, shower head, or toilet adds up quickly. Even a slow leak from just one faucet can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water each year, so to prevent wasting money on water costs, leaking taps should be fixed or replaced immediately. 

This blog will share three common causes of leaking faucets. Whether homeowners decide to tackle these repairs themselves or call for reinforcements from a plumber, knowing the cause of a leaky faucet is the first step.

Worn O-Rings

A worn-out O-ring can cause dripping near the handle of the faucet. O-rings are typically made from rubber and form a seal that prevents water from leaking out. Over time, these seals may weaken or become damaged due to wear and tear, causing them to lose effectiveness and leak. 

A broken or worn-out O-ring can let water seep through, causing a slow but steady drip near the handle. In order to fix this issue, replacing the worn-out O-ring with a new one is necessary. This involves taking apart the faucet and replacing the old O-ring with a new one, but it’s essential to ensure the replacement is the exact dimension of the previous O-ring.

Worn Washers

A washer is a circular piece that can be made of several materials that reduce friction between two surfaces, such as nuts and bolts. When a washer becomes worn out or corroded over time, it can cause leakage at the spout. This is because the worn-out material will no longer provide an effective barrier between the two surfaces, resulting in water escaping from the tap’s spout. 

In order to repair the issue, it is necessary to replace the worn-out or corroded washer with a new one, ensuring that leaks are prevented in the future. Washers can weaken or crack from corrosion over time due to harsh water conditions and mineral deposits.

Damaged Valve Seats

A corroded valve seat can also cause water to leak or drip from the spout, as the seal between the valve seat and the stem is broken. A valve seat is part of a valve that serves as a surface that seals off against fluid pressure. It takes the load of closing and opening the valve, preventing water flow when it’s closed. 

When a valve seat is corroded, it can no longer properly seal against the stem, and water will leak through. This is why it’s essential to replace it if it becomes corroded or damaged. If left unchecked, corrosion could lead to more serious issues, such as contamination or system failure. So, don’t delay. Repair faucet leaks and start saving money today. 

About Valley Plumbing and Drain Cleaning

Valley Plumbing and Drain Cleaning have over a decade of experience serving West Jordan, UT, and the surrounding areas. They provide honest pricing, 24/7 live answers, and a hassle-free experience. Call them today for faucet, fixture, and sink installation and repair in West Jordan, UT.

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