Essential Winter Plumbing Tips for Sumner, WA Homes

Jen Woslager • December 16, 2024

As winter approaches Sumner, WA, homeowners must consider the potential risks that freezing temperatures pose to their plumbing systems. Without proper precautions, the cold can cause extensive and costly damage. This guide by Riser Plumbing and Drain highlights essential measures to safeguard your pipes and heating system during the colder months, ensuring your home remains safe and operational.

Why Winterize? The consequences of neglecting to winterize plumbing are severe. Frozen and burst pipes can lead to significant water damage, disrupting your home and potentially causing thousands of dollars in repairs. Cold weather can also exacerbate existing blockages in drains and water heaters, reducing their efficiency and lifespan. Moreover, septic systems are susceptible to freezing without proper insulation, which can lead to messy and expensive backups.

Steps to Winterize Your Home's Plumbing:

1. Insulate Pipes: Insulating your pipes is the first line of defense against freezing temperatures. Apply foam tubing or heating tape to pipes in unheated areas like garages, basements, and crawl spaces, as well as those along exterior walls. This simple step helps maintain water temperature and prevents the expansion and contraction that can cause bursts.

2. Drain External Pipes: Water remaining in outdoor pipes and faucets can freeze and expand, leading to cracks and bursts. Shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets and irrigation systems, and drain them thoroughly. Disconnect all garden hoses and install insulated covers on outdoor faucets to provide extra protection against freezing.

3. Service Your Water Heater: The demand on your water heater increases during winter, as colder water enters the system and requires more energy to heat. To ensure efficiency, drain and remove sediment from the tank, which can build up and cause corrosion. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to optimize performance and energy use.

4. Seal Leaks: Prevent cold drafts that can freeze indoor plumbing by sealing leaks around doors, windows, and where pipes enter your house. Use weather stripping, caulking, or spray foam insulation to block out the cold and keep warm air inside.

5. Maintain Indoor Heating: A well-heated home is crucial to prevent pipes located in walls and under cabinets from freezing. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are away from home. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, particularly on extremely cold nights.

6. Know Your Plumbing Layout: Understanding where your plumbing runs and locating your home's main water shut-off valve can prevent disasters. In an emergency, such as a burst pipe, quickly shutting off the water can minimize damage. Regular inspections can help you identify potential problems before they lead to serious issues.

Potential Risks of Neglect: Ignoring winter preparation can result in burst pipes, flooded basements, inoperable heating systems, and hefty repair bills. Regular maintenance and proactive winterization can dramatically reduce these risks and help maintain your home's value and safety.

Winterizing your plumbing is an indispensable task for homeowners in Sumner, WA. Taking the time to prepare can help you avoid the pitfalls of winter weather and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. Riser Plumbing and Drain is committed to helping you prepare your home for the cold months ahead. Contact us today for more information, to schedule a service, or for further assistance with your plumbing needs. Ensure your home is ready for winter and enjoy the season without plumbing worries.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

How Much Water Does a Dishwasher Use?

March 10, 2025

Did you know that using a dishwasher can actually save more water than washing dishes by hand? Many homeowners believe dishwashers wastewater, but modern models are designed to deliver sparkling clean dishes efficiently. But how much water does a dishwasher use, and what factors affect its efficiency? At Riser Plumbing, we believe in helping homeowners make informed decisions about their water usage. Whether you're considering a newer dishwasher or want to maximize the efficiency of your current one, understanding water consumption is essential. Let's break it down by cycle, model, and efficiency factors. How Much Water Does a Dishwasher Use on Average? The amount of water a dishwasher uses varies depending on the model and cycle. Older dishwashers could use as much as 10-15 gallons per cycle, while newer ENERGY STAR models use as little as 3-5 gallons per cycle. If you’re trying to save water, upgrading to a high-efficiency dishwasher can make a significant difference. At Riser Plumbing, we can help you choose and install a dishwasher that aligns with your water conservation goals. Dishwasher Cycles and Their Water Usage Each cycle in a dishwasher serves a different purpose, and some require more water than others. Here's a general breakdown: Normal Cycle – Uses 3-5 gallons, balancing efficiency and cleanliness. Heavy-Duty Cycle – Can use 7-10 gallons, perfect for greasy or heavily soiled dishes. Eco Mode – Uses the least amount of water, often around 2-4 gallons. Quick Wash – Saves time but may use more water to compensate for the shorter cycle. If you want to save water, choosing the right cycle based on your load size is crucial. Riser Plumbing can provide expert recommendations to ensure you're getting the best performance from your dishwasher. Does a Dishwasher Use Less Water Than Hand Washing? Many people assume washing by hand is the better choice, but studies show otherwise. Washing a whole load of dishes by hand can use up to 27 gallons, while a high-efficiency dishwasher only needs 3-5 gallons. By using your dishwasher, you not only save water but also energy, making it a win-win for your home and the environment. At Riser Plumbing, we help homeowners make smart choices to enhance their home's efficiency. How Newer Dishwashers Help Save Water If you’re still using an older model, you might be wasting gallons of water daily. Newer dishwashers come with features like: Soil Sensors – Adjust the water based on how dirty your dishes are. Efficient Spray Arms – Ensures better coverage while using less water. ENERGY STAR Certification – Guarantees energy and water savings. Upgrading your appliance? Riser Plumbing provides expert installation services to ensure everything is properly set up for maximum efficiency. Benefits of Using a Dishwasher Over Hand Washing Using a dishwasher isn't just about saving water—it also offers other benefits: Time-Saving – Load your dishes, press start, and walk away. More Hygienic – Dishwashers reach higher temperatures than hand washing. Eco-Friendly – Uses less energy and water, reducing your environmental impact. Want to learn more about the benefits of dishwashers? Contact Riser Plumbing for expert advice on improving your kitchen efficiency. Tips to Maximize Your Dishwasher’s Efficiency To get the best performance and save water, follow these simple tips: Run Full Loads Only – Avoid halfloads to maximize efficiency. Scrape, Don’t Rinse – Modern dishwashers clean well without pre-rinsing. Choose Eco Mode – Helps save water and energy. Maintain Your Dishwasher – Regularly check for leaks or clogs. At Riser Plumbing, we provide maintenance services to keep your dishwasher running efficiently year-round. Can a Dishwasher Affect Your Water Bill? Absolutely! A high-efficiency dishwasher can save hundreds of gallons of water annually, which translates to lower utility bills. If your water bill is unexpectedly high, a leaking or inefficient dishwasher could be the culprit. Riser Plumbing can inspect your system and recommend solutions to save water and reduce waste. Make Every Drop Count with Riser Plumbing Your dishwasher can be a powerful tool for saving water—if used efficiently. Understanding how much water a dishwasher uses and making smart choices can help reduce waste, lower bills, and improve performance. At Riser Plumbing, we’re committed to helping homeowners achieve efficiency in their kitchens. Whether you need repairs, installation, or advice, our team is here to provide top-quality services. Contact Riser Plumbing today to learn more and ensure your home runs at peak efficiency.

How Long Does It Take for Hot Water to Come Back After a Shower?

March 10, 2025

Wondering how long does it take for hot water to come back after a shower? Learn why delays happen & how Riser Plumbing can help.

Comprehensive Rooter Services in Enumclaw, WA

By Jen Woslager • February 21, 2025

If you're dealing with persistent drain clogs or sewer backups in Enumclaw, WA, Riser Plumbing and Drain offers expert rooter services to clear even the toughest blockages. Using advanced tools like video inspections, drain augers, and hydro-jetting, our team ensures your plumbing runs smoothly. Don’t wait for small issues to turn into major problems—contact Riser Plumbing and Drain today for fast, reliable service!

Water Heater Maintenance Tips for Bonney Lake, WA

By Jen Woslager • February 3, 2025

Regular water heater maintenance is essential for efficiency and longevity, especially in Bonney Lake, WA. Simple steps like checking the temperature, flushing the tank, and inspecting the anode rod can prevent costly breakdowns. If your unit is over 8–12 years old, making noise, leaking, or producing rusty water, it may be time for a replacement. Riser Plumbing and Drain offers expert maintenance and installation to keep your home running smoothly, schedule your service today!