Frozen pipe covered in icicles.

DIY Tips for Maintaining an Efficient Plumbing System

Frozen pipe covered in icicles.

Not much is more frustrating than facing issues with your plumbing system, especially when you’re planning to entertain guests throughout the holiday season. Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to better prevent plumbing problems. Here, GEM Plumbing & Heating explains how to keep your plumbing system running well during the holidays and winter.

Common Plumbing Issues in Winter

The first step in preventing issues is to familiarize yourself with some common plumbing problems in the winter. With more foot traffic comes more plumbing wear and tear. Some plumbing problems you may face during the holidays include:

  • Clogs: The more guests who use your toilets, the higher the chance of clogs.
  • Garbage disposal issues: Additional quantities of food can result in a greater chance of a clogged garbage disposal.
  • Freezing temperatures: Cold weather in the winter can lead to frozen pipes and a further range of plumbing issues.
  • Water heater trouble: The winter climate can strain your water heater.

Your Winter Plumbing Checklist

Homeowners can follow our plumbing checklist to enjoy the holiday season without any problems. Prepare your plumbing for winter by performing these tasks:

  • Insulate pipes: Prevent frozen lines this winter by ensuring your pipes have adequate insulation.
  • Prevent clogged drains and toilets: Ensure only appropriate items are flushed or put down your drains.
  • Inspect pipes for leaks: A leaky pipe can cause water damage, improper water flow, and spikes in your water bill.
  • Watch your water pressure: If you notice your water pressure is too high or too low, check the gauge to ensure it’s in the normal range of 40 to 60 psi.
  • Keep your disposal clear: Know what you can and can’t put down the drain to avoid a malfunctioning garbage disposal.
  • Schedule maintenance with GEM: Our team will promptly arrive to provide plumbing inspections, cleanings, and tune-ups as needed. We recommend scheduling maintenance before the temperature drops. We offer a maintenance plan with benefits, including priority service and discounts.

Schedule Plumbing Maintenance Today

As a family values company since 1949, GEM Plumbing & Heating has delivered reputable plumbing services to our community. Our technicians are licensed, certified, and background checked, and we offer same-day and 24-hour services for your convenience. We also provide financing options, free estimates on system replacements, and upfront pricing.

Ready to get started? Schedule comprehensive plumbing services in Rhode Island or Massachusetts by calling GEM today.

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