Located in Simcoe County to the north of Toronto, the town of New Tecumseth was established in 1991. The area is famous for its natural beauty, rich economy, peaceful small-town vibe, and gorgeous New Tecumseth homes, which are available in a wide range of prices and styles. But with average winter temperatures of between 13°F (-10°C) and 27°F (-3°C), New Tecumseth winters can get brutal. And one thing you must stay on top of during this season is your plumbing. Here are five pointers to help you.
Check for Leaks and Fix Your Pipes
The New Tecumseth real estate market is full of stunning homes with good plumbing, but things don’t always stay like that. Naturally, some homes in the area are decades old and have experienced wear and tear, specifically in the piping system. This is why one of the first things you should do right before winter is to check your pipes for leaks. Leaks can make your pipes vulnerable to bursting during winter and leave you without water for several cold months. If you find anything of concern, call your plumber.
Disconnect from the Outdoors
It is going to be freezing outside; and while you cannot do much about that, you can protect your pipes. Experts recommend that you disconnect all your outdoor hoses and store them inside. This will prevent them from freezing and bursting when the temperature drops. By disconnecting the outdoor pipes, you also protect the pipes within your home. You should also turn off all the shutoff valves for your outside faucets. Remember to store your pipes in a warm area, preferably in the garage, and close the door.
Keep Your House Warm
Naturally, you are going to want to keep your house warm during winter. This is crucial to the health of you and your loved ones. But it is also important for your pipes that the temperature in your home never falls below 55°F(12°C). Lower temperatures than this can lead your pipes to freeze and burst, which can be very expensive to fix. So resist the urge to turn off the heat when you leave the house.
Dispose of Garbage Properly
More than any other time, how you dispose of garbage in the winter can affect your plumbing. The cold during this season can cause fats and oils that you pour down the drain to freeze and clog your drains. This is why you should dispose of grease and fat properly – never pour oil down the sink directly – and always turn on the disposal before you throw in any debris.
Use Water Wisely
Low temperatures can be as hard on your water heater as they are on you. To make things easier for your heater, use water more sparingly. Try to space out your shower times throughout the day so the heater has enough time to collect sufficient water and keep warm water in the pipes. You can also space out your laundry days for the same reason.
Explore New Tecumseth Real Estate with Angela Rossi
Despite very cold winters, there is a lot to love about New Tecumseth. If you are ready to explore the New Tecumseth real estate market, contact Angela Rossi today. Angela has been in the business for years and provides many resources for homebuyers and sellers looking to venture into New Tecumseth, Toronto, and the Greater Toronto area. Call her office today to learn more.
