How to look after your Drains during Cold Snap in Shepperton

Don't Let Winter Freeze Your Pipes! Essential Drain Care Tips for Shepperton, Weybridge, Walton-on-Thames, Ashford & Virginia Water!

Winter weather can wreak havoc on your plumbing, causing frozen pipes, frustrating clogs, and costly repairs. But don't worry, with a little preparation, you can keep your drains flowing freely all season long. Jetadrain has compiled a list of helpful tips to ensure your home's drainage system survives the coldest months.

1. Stop Grease Buildup:

Never pour grease, cooking oil, or fat down the drain. These solidify in cold weather, forming blockages. Instead, collect them in a sealed container and dispose of them properly.

2. Clear Outdoor Drains:

Leaves, twigs, and debris can clog outdoor drains during winter. Regularly clear these drains to prevent backups and potential overflows. Remember where your drain covers are located before snow arrives.

3. Ensure Your Stop Valve Works:

The stop valve, usually under the kitchen sink, isolates your home's water supply. It's crucial to ensure it functions correctly. A rusty valve might seize up during a freeze. Open and close the valve every few weeks to maintain its functionality. Turning clockwise closes it, while counter-clockwise opens it. If it's stiff, spray some WD-40, let it sit, wipe the excess, and try again. A malfunctioning stop valve can make isolating a leak difficult in an emergency.

4. Prevent Dripping Taps:

A dripping tap not only wastes water but is also prone to freezing in cold weather. This can lead to burst pipes and significant damage. Repair or replace any leaky faucets before winter arrives.

5. Flush Your Kitchen Sink Regularly:

Flush hot water down your kitchen sink weekly to clear any small particles trapped in the U-bend pipe. This helps prevent unpleasant odours and blockages.

6. Insulate Exposed Pipes:

Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like crawlspaces, attics, or outside walls with foam padding or insulation tape to prevent freezing and potential bursts.

7. Hot Water for Extra Precaution:

As an additional precaution, occasionally pour hot water down the kitchen sink to help melt any minor build-up in the pipes.

8. Tackle Clogged Drains:

Hair and other debris can clog shower and bath drains. Regularly remove hair buildup. For stubborn clogs, consider using a drain snake or a baking soda and vinegar solution. Caution: Avoid caustic drain cleaners, as they can solidify in pipes and worsen blockages.

9. Clean Your Gutters:

Leaves and debris can clog gutters, causing water to overflow and potentially damage your foundation. Regularly clear your gutters throughout the fall and winter.

10. Winterise Your Garden Taps:

Turn off the garden tap valve and drain the hose to prevent freezing and pipe bursts. Additionally, insulate the taps and exposed pipes with lagging or bubble wrap.

Don't Let Winter Clog Your Drains! Call Jetadrain for Expert Service in Shepperton, Weybridge & Virginia Water!

As winter approaches, prevent pesky clogs and keep your drains flowing freely with Jetadrain's expert services. We offer comprehensive drain inspections and solutions to ensure your plumbing runs smoothly throughout the season. Don't wait for a blockage to disrupt your home – contact Jetadrain today for fast, reliable drain repairs from the trusted professionals in Shepperton, Weybridge and beyond. Call Keith or Jayne at 01932 765892 or 07956 324822.