If you live in Twin Falls, you know winters here are harsh. Freezing nights, strong winds, and sudden temperature swings can impact your home plumbing components. The impact of wind is greater for properties near the Snake River Canyon. Also, plumbing vulnerabilities vary by property type. Older homes in downtown face different issues compared to new developments in the south. We decided to talk to a top-rated plumbing service in Twin Falls – Master Plumbing, and the experts advised us on how to better prepare for winters here.
- Find the Vulnerable Zones: Exterior-wall plumbing is commonly seen in properties that were built before 1990, and it is critical to have plumbers check the pipes and other components. Plumbing issues in isolated garages, barns, and workshops also need attention. Review the entire plumbing layout of your home and identify any zones that need inspection before winter.
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: The freeze-thaw cycles in South Idaho can cause damage to pipes. You have to work with plumbers to find the best ways to protect pipes along exterior walls, unheated basements, and lines that run through attics. The technicians can recommend heat tape or other measures that can help add insulation. Also, ahead of winter, ensure you disconnect the hoses, drain all bibs, and use insulated faucet covers.
- Seal Cracks and Gaps: If you don’t want to stress your HVAC systems, it is a good idea to check common draft locations and seal all cracks and gaps through which cold winds can enter the home. Check with your plumbing service whether an inspection is required to find these issues.
- Prepare Your Water Heater: Twin Falls has hard water, so you’ll need to pay for annual flushing to keep your water heater in good condition. Sediment deposits can affect performance during winter. Ask the technicians to check the anode rod before the temperatures start to drop.
- Inspect Crawl Spaces: People usually ignore crawl spaces when it comes to winter prep, but you have to check these areas and ensure vents are insulated/closed, as needed. Experts can also check whether rodents like rats and mice have entered inside, and if there is an infestation, the same has to be addressed before winter. Technicians will also look for moisture levels that indicate leaks.
- Test the Drainage System: Many property owners in Twin Falls rely extensively on sump pumps during warm winter thaws. It is a good idea to get plumbers to check the pump, clear the pit, and assess the discharge line. Experts also recommend checking drainage entirely before winter, including the sewer line.
- Signs You Need a Professional Service: If you have considered all these basic steps but still have repeated pipe freezes, it is a sign that professional work is required. In many cases, line leaks aren’t visible until technicians check all details. For water heater issues, do not attempt DIY repairs, as you could end up causing more damage. Besides checking current issues, the plumbing team can also recommend whether certain parts have to be replaced or if additional repairs are required.
Working with Plumbers in Twin Falls
Fortunately, there are some reliable plumbing companies in Twin Falls. You just need to check whether the selected service is licensed in Idaho, has great reviews, and offers guarantees on both replacement parts and workmanship. As a customer, you should get advice from technicians who are in the field and know the local problems rather than internet rookies who share vague tips and fixes. Preparing in advance for winter will ensure you don’t deal with plumbing emergencies or unexpected breakdowns of appliances due to the temperature changes.
