As temperatures drop in Eugene, OR, your outdoor plumbing can face new challenges. Outdoor faucets, hose connections, and exposed pipes may be more vulnerable to cold weather than the plumbing inside your home.
A little preparation before winter can help reduce the chance of plumbing problems and keep your outdoor water connections in better shape.
If you notice a leaking outdoor faucet, damaged pipe, or other plumbing issue, Reynolds Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air can help you identify the problem and determine the right repair. Call (541) 305-8683 or contact our team online to get started.
Disconnect Garden Hoses
One of the simplest steps you can take before winter is removing garden hoses from outdoor faucets. A connected hose can hold water against the faucet, making it harder for the water to drain properly.
Before temperatures get colder:
- Disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor faucets.
- Drain the hoses and store them in a protected area.
- Check the faucet connection for leaks or damage.
- Avoid leaving hoses attached for long periods during cold weather.
Removing the hose also gives you a chance to inspect the faucet before winter weather arrives.
Check Outdoor Faucets for Leaks
A dripping outdoor faucet may seem like a small problem, but it can indicate that a washer, valve, or another part needs attention. Cold weather can make existing plumbing problems more noticeable.
Walk around your property and check each outdoor faucet for:
- Dripping or leaking water
- Cracks around the faucet or connection
- Loose fittings
- Water is pooling near the foundation
- Signs of previous leaks or water damage
If a faucet continues to leak after you turn it off, having the problem checked can help prevent a small plumbing issue from becoming more complicated.
Look for Exposed Pipes
Outdoor plumbing isn't limited to faucets. Pipes running through garages, crawl spaces, exterior walls, or other less-protected areas may also be affected by colder temperatures.
Look for sections of pipe that are:
- Exposed to outdoor air
- Located near doors or windows
- Poorly insulated
- Showing signs of corrosion or damage
Pipe insulation can provide an added layer of protection in vulnerable areas. However, insulation is not a substitute for repairing a damaged or leaking pipe.
Know Where Your Main Water Shutoff Is
Knowing how to shut off your home's main water supply is useful year-round, but it becomes especially important when preparing for colder weather.
If a plumbing problem develops, quickly turning off the water may help limit water damage while you arrange professional help.
Make sure everyone in the household knows:
- Where the main shutoff valve is located
- How the valve operates
- Which direction turns the water off
- Where outdoor shutoff valves are located, if your home has them
If you are unsure whether a valve is working properly, a plumbing professional can inspect it.
Pay Attention to Changes in Water Flow
Changes in water flow can sometimes be an early sign that something is wrong with your plumbing system. If an outdoor faucet suddenly has very low pressure, makes unusual noises, or stops working correctly, don't ignore it.
The problem could involve the faucet itself, the connecting pipe, or another part of the plumbing system.
Professional residential plumbing services can help identify the cause and determine whether a repair is needed.
Prepare Before the Coldest Weather Arrives
Eugene winters can bring plenty of rain along with periods of colder temperatures. Preparing outdoor plumbing before the weather becomes more challenging gives you time to find and address problems.
A simple November plumbing check can include:
- Disconnecting garden hoses
- Checking outdoor faucets for leaks
- Inspecting exposed pipes
- Looking for damaged fittings
- Locating your main water shutoff
- Addressing plumbing problems before they worsen
Taking these steps can help you head into winter with greater confidence in your home's plumbing system.
If you find a leak or another plumbing concern while preparing your home, Reynolds Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air is here to help. For dependable plumbing guidance and repairs in Eugene, OR, call (541) 305-8683 or contact our team.
