Winterize your well, cold temperatures are coming in and could cause problems for your well. Here are a few steps you can take to keep your well safe and working all winter long.
- Protect Your Pump
Many wells are underground and are protected from the freezing temperatures, if yours is not it is important to protect it from the elements. Try building a “well house”, a small insulated structure that keeps your pump above 32 degrees, this well reduce the risk of freezing and damage. In the long run, this could save you time and money when compared to replacing your broken pump. If you need help, click here to find a contractor nearby.
2. Protect Your Pipes
As temperatures drop and water freezes, the expansion could bust your pipes. This could lead to damage not only in your well but your home. If your pipes are above ground it is imperative you take caution and make sure they are protected. Small diameter pipes with mounted pressure switches and the body of pressure gauges are especially sensitive to freezing temperatures. These three things can help avoid unnecessary hassle this winter.
- Turn off your exterior water and blow out your pipes.
Ideally your house will have a shut-off valve for its exterior water supply. If so, turn off any water that flows to outside irrigation systems and faucets. Once you have turned the water off, then drain the remaining water or use an air compressor to blow out the pipes. If you don’t have a shut-off valve, find a local contractor for other options to shutting off exterior water. - Insulate your pipes.
For houses with piping that runs through non-heated spaces like basements, we suggest insulating pipes. Wrapping pipes with rubber casings or fiberglass insulation can keep their temperature above freezing and the water flowing. - Inspect your pipes.
This is a great time to do a general inspection of your water system and piping. Spotting a problem in your system now could save you from a costly problem this winter.
3.Prepare for a Power Outage
Power outages are typically out of control but being prepared for them is not. To make sure you have water to drink while you wait for the lights to come back on it is helpful to have your pump connected to a gas generator. Make sure to keep the gas stocked just in case. It would also be helpful to have bottled water on hand in case the power outage lasts longer than anticipated. It is always good to be prepared.
Stay safe and keep warm this winter with these winterizing tips. And remember to always inspect your pump and pipes after winter storms to check for any possible damage.
