SEATTLE — As Western Washington heads toward the winter months, homeowners will likely want to prepare for the impacts of colder temperatures. Local experts shared some tips for cutting down on heating costs and preventing plumbing problems — which can require expensive repairs.
Gene Johnson Plumbing and Heating General Manager Kimberly Kean says the business sees an increase in calls for no heat, no hot water and drainage issues as winter rains begin and as Washington sees multiple days in a row of low temperatures.
Ideally, Kean says homeowners should begin preparing for cold temperatures around "back-to-school" time — but if they don't, it's important to do it now to limit heating bills and prevent potential pitfalls that can require expensive repairs.
These recommendations include checking around one's home for leaks or holes that may need to be filled and consider adding insulation to windows. Be sure to replace filters and don't put extra strain on the heating system.
"If you have any remote ducts in your home you typically keep closed in the floor or the ceiling because you're trying to save energy in the room because you don't use it, that can actually stress out the equipment," Kean said. "So I would open those up and make sure you don't put your equipment under any stress it doesn't need to be under."
As for plumbing, be sure to wrap pipes where needed and in cold spots, as well as keep faucets cracked open during low-temperature days.
Kean emphasized keeping in mind your outdoor plumbing as well.
"The thing we hear all the time is that everyone knows to winterize those hose faucets and irrigation — but so many people forget to actually do it," Kean said. "Take off the automatic sprinkler attachments, go around and check and make sure nothing is attached, because those are the most typical to freeze."