As temperatures begin to drop in Greenville, SC, preparing your home for winter is essential to stay warm, save on energy costs, and prevent unexpected breakdowns. A well-maintained heating system not only keeps your family comfortable but also runs more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills. Winterizing your heating system can also extend its lifespan and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs during the coldest months.

This guide will walk you through the key steps to get your home’s heating system ready for winter, from professional inspections to simple DIY tasks. Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help Greenville homeowners keep their homes cozy and efficient all winter long.

Click here to learn more about our comprehensive heating services and how we can help you prepare for the winter season.

Schedule a Professional Heating System Inspection

The first step in preparing for winter is scheduling a professional inspection of your heating system. An annual inspection ensures that your system is running efficiently, safely, and is prepared to handle Greenville’s colder months. During the inspection, a qualified technician will check for any issues that could lead to inefficient heating, unexpected breakdowns, or safety hazards.

What a Professional Heating Inspection Covers

• System Efficiency: Technicians test and calibrate components to ensure your system operates at peak efficiency, which helps reduce energy costs.
• Safety Checks: Inspecting for gas leaks, carbon monoxide risks, and other potential safety hazards keeps your home protected.
• Wear and Tear on Components: Regular inspections catch small issues like worn belts or loose connections before they escalate into major repairs.

Scheduling an inspection ahead of winter also gives you the peace of mind that your system is ready to keep you warm. Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning offers expert heating maintenance services to ensure your furnace or heat pump is in top shape.

Learn more about our heating maintenance services here, or contact us today to book your winter inspection.

Replace or Clean Air Filters

Replacing or cleaning your air filters is one of the simplest yet most effective steps to prepare your heating system for winter. Air filters trap dust, dirt, and allergens, keeping your air clean and your system running smoothly. Over time, filters become clogged, reducing airflow and making your heating system work harder. This not only increases energy bills but also decreases indoor air quality.

Why Regular Filter Maintenance is Essential

• Improved Efficiency: Clean filters allow for proper airflow, which helps your heating system run more efficiently and use less energy.
• Better Indoor Air Quality: Clean filters trap more dust and allergens, contributing to a healthier home environment.
• Prolonged System Lifespan: Reducing strain on your system helps prevent breakdowns and extends the life of your heating unit.

When to Replace Filters: As a general rule, filters should be replaced or cleaned every 1-3 months, especially during winter when the system is in heavy use.

Regularly maintaining your air filters is an easy DIY step, but if you’re unsure or need assistance, our team at Chisholm can help. Explore our HVAC services here to ensure your system is well-maintained for the winter.

Thermostat Check and Programming

A properly functioning thermostat is key to keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient during winter. If your thermostat is outdated or not calibrated correctly, your heating system may not work as effectively, leading to higher energy bills and uneven temperatures throughout your home. Checking your thermostat settings and upgrading to a programmable or smart model can make a big difference.

Thermostat Tips for Winter Efficiency

• Set a Consistent Schedule: Programmable thermostats allow you to set a heating schedule that aligns with your daily routine. Lowering the temperature while you’re asleep or away can reduce energy use by up to 10%.
• Consider an Upgrade: If your home has an older thermostat, upgrading to a smart thermostat allows for remote control and more precise temperature management. Many smart models can also learn your schedule, automatically adjusting for optimal comfort and efficiency.
• Calibrate the Thermostat: A professional can ensure your thermostat is properly calibrated so it accurately reads the temperature, avoiding unnecessary heating cycles.

If you’re considering a thermostat upgrade or need help with programming, Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning offers guidance and installation services for various thermostat models, helping you get the most out of your heating system.

Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors are a major source of heat loss in homes, causing your heating system to work overtime to keep the interior warm. Sealing these gaps can help keep warm air inside, reduce energy waste, and make your home feel cozier during the winter months.

DIY Tips for Sealing Drafts

• Apply Weatherstripping: Adding weatherstripping around doors and windows can effectively seal gaps and prevent cold air from entering. This is an affordable and easy fix that can make a noticeable difference in your home’s warmth.
• Use Caulk to Seal Cracks: Small cracks or openings around window frames can be sealed with caulk, which helps prevent drafts and protects your home from moisture damage.
• Install Door Sweeps: Door sweeps at the bottom of exterior doors help block drafts that can seep in from underneath. They’re especially useful for doors leading to unheated areas like garages or basements.
• Consider Window Insulation Film: A temporary solution, window insulation film adds an extra layer to your windows to reduce drafts, especially if you have single-pane windows.

Taking these steps to seal windows and doors can reduce your heating costs and help your system maintain a consistent indoor temperature. If you’d like to explore further efficiency improvements, contact us at Chisholm.

Check and Clean Vents and Ducts

Blocked or dirty vents and ducts can limit airflow throughout your home, making your heating system work harder to distribute warm air. Regularly checking and cleaning vents and ducts is a great way to improve your system’s efficiency, enhance indoor air quality, and ensure even heating in every room.

Tips for Maintaining Vents and Ducts

• Vacuum and Dust Vents: Dust and debris can accumulate on vent covers and in the openings. Regularly vacuuming or wiping down vent covers helps prevent clogs and allows air to flow freely.
• Check for Obstructions: Make sure furniture, rugs, and curtains are not blocking vents. Blocked vents can create pressure imbalances in the heating system, reducing efficiency.
• Consider Professional Duct Cleaning: Over time, dust, allergens, and even mold can build up in your ductwork. Professional duct cleaning not only improves airflow but also enhances indoor air quality, which is especially beneficial during winter when windows and doors are typically closed.

If you suspect there’s significant buildup in your ductwork, Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning can provide expert duct cleaning and vent maintenance services to ensure optimal airflow in your home. Explore our heating services here.

Inspect Insulation

Proper insulation is essential for keeping warm air inside your home during winter, reducing the load on your heating system and lowering energy bills. Insufficient insulation in your attic, walls, or basement can lead to significant heat loss, causing your furnace or heat pump to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Key Areas to Inspect and Insulate

• Attic Insulation: Heat rises, making the attic one of the most important areas to insulate. Insufficient attic insulation can allow warm air to escape through the roof. Consider adding extra insulation or upgrading to a higher R-value material to improve heat retention.
• Wall Insulation: Older homes, in particular, may have little to no insulation in walls. Adding insulation to exterior walls can help prevent heat loss and improve comfort throughout your home.
• Basement and Crawl Space Insulation: Cold air from uninsulated basements and crawl spaces can seep up into living areas, making it harder to keep your home warm. Proper insulation in these areas helps create a thermal barrier, keeping warm air where you want it.

Improving your home’s insulation not only makes it more comfortable but also reduces the strain on your heating system, leading to lower energy costs. For a full assessment of your heating needs, contact Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning.

Prepare Your Home’s Exterior

Preparing the exterior of your home is a vital step in winterizing your heating system and protecting your plumbing. By taking a few simple precautions, you can prevent common winter problems like frozen pipes and ensure your outdoor heating components are in good working order.

Exterior Winter Preparation Tips

• Clear Debris Around Outdoor HVAC Units: Remove leaves, branches, and other debris from around your outdoor HVAC unit. This allows for proper airflow and reduces the risk of damage from winter storms or ice buildup.
• Cover Outdoor Faucets: Use faucet covers to protect outdoor spigots from freezing temperatures. This can prevent the pipes connected to those faucets from freezing and bursting, which can cause costly water damage.
• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Pipes in unheated areas, such as garages, basements, and crawl spaces, are at high risk of freezing. Wrapping them with insulation sleeves or heat tape can help prevent frozen pipes.
• Trim Nearby Trees and Bushes: If you have branches hanging near your HVAC unit, consider trimming them back. This minimizes the chance of branches breaking off during a storm and damaging the unit.

By winter-proofing your home’s exterior, you can help protect your plumbing and heating systems from harsh winter conditions. Check out our full range of heating services to learn more about how Chisholm can help you prepare for the season.

Conclusion

Preparing your home for winter in Greenville, SC, is essential to staying warm, saving on energy costs, and avoiding mid-season breakdowns. From scheduling a professional heating inspection to sealing windows and checking insulation, these simple steps can make a big difference in your home’s comfort and efficiency.

By taking action now, you can enjoy a worry-free winter with consistent warmth and peace of mind. Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help with any of your heating needs, from inspections and repairs to replacements and installations. With our experience and dedication to quality service, we’ll make sure your heating system is ready for the cold months ahead.

Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our winter heating services in Greenville. Let Chisholm help keep your home cozy and efficient this winter season!

 

Owning an older home in Greer, SC, comes with unique charm and character, from historic architecture to timeless details. However, homes built decades ago often come with a few extra challenges, especially when it comes to their plumbing systems. While older properties offer a sense of history, their plumbing systems may not hold up to the demands of modern living and can lead to frequent issues if not properly maintained.

In this guide, we’ll walk through some of the most common plumbing problems homeowners in Greer encounter with older properties. From outdated pipes to water heater issues, we’ll explain what to look for and when to consider calling a professional. With Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning’s expertise, you can keep your historic Greer home’s plumbing in top shape.

Click here to learn more about our plumbing services and how we can help with any plumbing needs your older home may have.

Outdated Piping Materials

One of the most common issues in older Greer homes is the use of outdated piping materials. Decades ago, materials like galvanized steel, cast iron, and even lead were popular in plumbing systems. While they were effective at the time, these materials tend to corrode, weaken, and cause plumbing problems as they age. Let’s look at why each material can be problematic today:

• Galvanized Steel Pipes: Galvanized steel was once a standard material for plumbing, but it’s prone to corrosion over time. Rust buildup inside the pipes can cause water discoloration, reduced water pressure, and eventually, leaks.
• Cast Iron Pipes: While durable, cast iron pipes can become brittle and are often vulnerable to corrosion, leading to cracks and, in some cases, sewer line issues.
• Lead Pipes: Lead pipes are rare but can still be found in some older homes. Lead can seep into your drinking water, posing significant health risks.

If you suspect any of these materials are in your plumbing system, it may be time to consider replacing them. Upgrading to modern materials like copper or PEX can improve water quality, increase water pressure, and reduce the risk of future leaks.

Learn more about our expertise in water and gas line services to see how Chisholm can help make your home safer and more efficient.

Corrosion and Pipe Leaks

Corrosion and leaks are inevitable issues for older homes, especially when original plumbing materials haven’t been replaced. Corrosion occurs naturally over time as water flows through pipes, slowly breaking down materials like galvanized steel and cast iron. Unfortunately, corrosion leads not only to visible rust and mineral buildup but also to weakened pipes that are prone to leaks and bursts.

Signs of Corrosion and Leaks in Your Plumbing

• Discolored Water: If your water looks rusty or has a brownish tint, this is often a sign of corrosion in older pipes. It can affect the taste of your water and may even stain sinks and tubs.
• Water Stains on Walls and Ceilings: Water stains in unexpected places can indicate a hidden leak in your pipes, which may worsen over time and cause costly water damage.
• Unexplained Water Bills: A sudden spike in your water bill could point to a leak somewhere in your system, even if it’s not yet visible.

The good news is that many of these problems can be resolved by repairing or replacing corroded pipes. Regular plumbing inspections can also catch early signs of corrosion, helping you avoid major repairs down the road.

If you’re dealing with leaks or suspect corrosion, Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Our expert team is trained to identify and resolve pipe issues to keep your plumbing in top shape.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a common frustration in older homes, and it’s often a sign of underlying plumbing issues. In older properties, water pressure problems can stem from aged pipes, sediment buildup, and outdated fixtures. Here are the primary reasons older plumbing systems struggle to maintain strong water pressure:

• Mineral Buildup: Over time, mineral deposits from hard water accumulate inside pipes, restricting water flow. This buildup can drastically reduce water pressure, making showers, dishwashing, and other tasks more time-consuming.
• Narrow or Outdated Pipes: In older homes, narrower pipe diameters were common, which limits water flow compared to today’s standards. If the home hasn’t been updated, these pipes can lead to noticeably lower water pressure, especially when multiple taps are used.
• Leakage: Hidden leaks in pipes or fixtures also cause a drop in water pressure. Even a small, unnoticed leak can have a big impact over time.

If you notice a decrease in water pressure, it may be time for a professional inspection to locate and resolve the issue. Modernizing your home’s plumbing system, whether through pipe cleaning or upgrading materials, can significantly improve water flow and pressure.

Explore our drain cleaning services to help restore water pressure in your Greer home.

Sewer Line Problems

Sewer line issues are another common problem in older homes, as decades of wear, ground shifts, and natural elements take a toll on underground pipes. Tree roots, ground settling, and outdated materials are frequent culprits behind sewer line problems, often leading to clogs, leaks, or even complete line breaks.

Signs of Sewer Line Issues

• Frequent Clogs and Backups: If you experience recurring clogs in multiple drains throughout the house, it may be due to a sewer line blockage rather than individual drain issues.
• Unpleasant Odors: Sewer gas smells around the yard, basement, or lower-level bathrooms indicate a possible crack or leak in the sewer line.
• Wet Spots in the Yard: Soggy areas or patches of unusually green grass in the yard could signal a leaking sewer line.

Sewer line problems are best handled by professionals equipped to inspect and repair underground lines. Using advanced technology, such as camera inspections, allows us to locate the issue precisely without unnecessary digging or disruption.

For comprehensive help with your sewer lines, check out Chisholm’s sewer line services. Our team is experienced in diagnosing and solving sewer line issues in older homes, ensuring your plumbing system runs smoothly.

Old Fixtures and Water Efficiency

Many older homes come with charming, vintage fixtures that add character—but they may also waste water and drive up utility bills. Plumbing fixtures from decades ago often use significantly more water than today’s efficient models, which were designed to conserve water without sacrificing performance. Replacing these fixtures can make a big difference in water usage and reduce the strain on your plumbing system.

Common Issues with Old Fixtures

• Increased Water Usage: Older faucets, showerheads, and toilets typically consume more water. For example, older toilets can use up to 7 gallons per flush, whereas newer models use as little as 1.6 gallons, reducing water consumption dramatically.
• Frequent Drips and Leaks: Aging fixtures are more prone to leaking due to worn-out parts and gaskets, resulting in wasted water and higher bills.
• Reduced Performance: Rust and mineral buildup can also clog older fixtures, decreasing water flow and pressure.

Upgrading to modern, water-efficient fixtures can improve water flow, reduce waste, and even qualify you for potential water-saving rebates. From low-flow faucets to high-efficiency toilets, Chisholm Plumbing can guide you through the best options for your home.

See our full range of plumbing services here to explore how we can help you upgrade your fixtures for better efficiency and savings.

Water Heater Issues

Water heaters are another critical component of any home’s plumbing system, and older units often show signs of wear and inefficiency. Many water heaters in older homes are near or past their expected lifespan, which is typically around 10-15 years. As these units age, they can develop issues such as inconsistent temperatures, leaks, and reduced heating efficiency, leading to higher energy costs and unreliable hot water.

Signs of an Aging or Failing Water Heater

• Inconsistent Water Temperature: If you’re experiencing fluctuating water temperatures, it could be due to sediment buildup in the tank or a failing heating element.
• Rust-Colored or Cloudy Water: Discolored water from hot water taps can indicate rust inside the water heater tank, a sign that the tank is corroding and may need replacement.
• Strange Noises: Rumbling, popping, or banging sounds coming from the water heater are often due to sediment buildup, which can lead to reduced efficiency and a shorter lifespan.
• Water Leaks Around the Tank: Any sign of water pooling near the water heater is cause for concern and may indicate a leak that requires immediate attention.

Upgrading to a newer, more efficient water heater can save on energy costs and provide more reliable hot water. Whether you’re interested in a traditional or tankless model, Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning can help you find the perfect fit for your home’s needs.

Learn more about our water heater services here to see how we can keep your home’s hot water supply running smoothly.

When to Call a Professional

While some minor plumbing issues can be handled by homeowners, many problems in older homes require the expertise of a professional plumber. Knowing when to call for help can prevent small issues from turning into major, costly repairs. Here are some situations where it’s best to contact a professional:

• Persistent Clogs and Backups: If you’re dealing with frequent clogs, backups, or slow drains that basic DIY methods can’t fix, it’s time to call in a professional. These symptoms may indicate a deeper problem, such as a sewer line issue, that requires specialized tools and knowledge.
• Low Water Pressure Throughout the House: Low water pressure isn’t just inconvenient; it can point to corrosion, leaks, or outdated piping in your home’s plumbing system. Professional inspection and repair can ensure that any underlying issues are effectively addressed.
• Signs of Water Damage or Leaks: Water stains, wet spots, or peeling paint are clear indicators of a hidden leak. A professional can locate the source of the leak and prevent further water damage to your property.
• Aging or Outdated Plumbing Systems: If you know your home’s plumbing system is outdated or still has original pipes, it’s a good idea to have an expert assess it. Professionals can help you prioritize necessary upgrades and replacements, which can improve efficiency and prevent costly future repairs.

At Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, we specialize in working with older homes in Greer. Our team is equipped to handle everything from minor repairs to major upgrades, ensuring your home’s plumbing is safe, efficient, and reliable. Get in touch with us today to schedule an inspection or repair.

Conclusion

Owning an older home in Greer brings unique charm and history, but it also requires staying proactive about maintenance, especially when it comes to plumbing. From outdated pipes to water heater issues, understanding and addressing common plumbing problems can help you avoid costly repairs and preserve the integrity of your home. By identifying signs of wear and upgrading as needed, you can ensure that your plumbing system remains efficient, safe, and reliable.

If you’re noticing any plumbing issues or just want peace of mind with a professional inspection, Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. With experience working in Greer and surrounding areas, we’re well-versed in the challenges of older home plumbing. Check out our full list of plumbing services here and contact us today to schedule a service.

 

Although South Carolina typically enjoys mild winters, there are times when temperatures drop low enough to pose a serious threat to your home’s plumbing system. Frozen pipes can lead to significant water damage, costly repairs, and inconvenient disruptions to your water supply. Preventing frozen pipes is much easier and less expensive than dealing with the aftermath of a burst pipe. In this blog, we’ll explore essential preventative plumbing care tips to help South Carolina homeowners protect their homes this winter.

Table of Contents

Section	Overview
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Concern in South Carolina	Explains why even mild winters can pose risks to plumbing in the region and the potential consequences of frozen pipes.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes	Practical tips for preventing pipes from freezing, including insulation, heating solutions, and water flow management.
Emergency Measures if Your Pipes Freeze	Outlines steps to take if your pipes do freeze to prevent them from bursting or causing water damage.
Frozen Pipe Costs: Prevention vs. Repairs	A comparison of the costs associated with preventative care versus the expense of repairing burst pipes.
Fun Facts About Plumbing and Freezing Pipes	Interesting facts about frozen pipes, including historical plumbing solutions and modern innovations.
FAQ: Common Questions About Winter Plumbing Care	Answers to common questions homeowners have about protecting their plumbing during winter.
How Chisholm Can Help Protect Your Plumbing This Winter	Information on Chisholm’s services for winter plumbing care and repairs, with a focus on preventing frozen pipes.

Glossary of Terms

• Pipe Insulation: Material used to cover pipes to prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of freezing.
• Heat Tape: An electrical tape that warms pipes to prevent freezing in cold weather.
• Main Water Shutoff Valve: The valve that controls the flow of water into your home, useful in case of emergencies like burst pipes.
• Drip Method: Allowing faucets to drip slowly during cold weather to keep water moving and prevent freezing.
• Thermal Expansion: The increase in pipe volume as water freezes and turns into ice, which can lead to bursting.

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Concern in South Carolina

Although South Carolina’s winters are generally milder compared to northern states, they still present risks to homes, especially when temperatures drop unexpectedly. Many homes in the region have plumbing systems designed for warmer climates, leaving them vulnerable when cold snaps hit. Pipes in exterior walls, unheated basements, attics, or crawl spaces are especially prone to freezing.

1. Homes Are Not Always Prepared
   Unlike northern homes, many South Carolina homes lack adequate pipe insulation. This makes pipes in exposed areas, such as garages or attics, more susceptible to freezing.
2. Unexpected Freezes
   A sudden overnight freeze can take homeowners by surprise, leading to frozen pipes before they’ve had a chance to take preventative measures.
3. Severe Consequences
   When pipes freeze, the pressure from expanding ice can cause them to crack or burst, leading to extensive water damage. Even a small burst pipe can result in thousands of dollars in repairs.

To avoid these issues, it’s essential to be proactive in winterizing your plumbing. Learn more about preventative plumbing care here.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

The best way to avoid dealing with frozen pipes is to take preventative action before the cold weather arrives. Here are some simple yet effective steps to keep your plumbing safe during South Carolina’s winter months:

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
   Pipes in unheated spaces, such as garages, attics, or crawl spaces, are the most vulnerable to freezing. Wrap them in pipe insulation to keep them warm during cold spells. For additional protection, consider using heat tape in extremely cold areas.
2. Seal Gaps and Cracks
   Check your home’s exterior for cracks or gaps around pipes and seal them with caulk or spray foam. Cold air seeping through small openings can quickly freeze nearby pipes.
3. Keep Garage Doors Closed
   If your home has water supply lines running through the garage, keep the garage doors closed as much as possible to maintain warmer temperatures inside.
4. Maintain a Drip
   When temperatures are expected to dip below freezing, allow your faucets to drip slightly. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and the drip relieves pressure in case freezing occurs.
5. Keep Your Home Heated
   Even if you’re away, keep your home’s thermostat set to at least 55°F. This prevents the interior pipes from freezing. You can also open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
   Always disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before winter. Leaving hoses attached can trap water in outdoor faucets and pipes, increasing the chance of freezing.
7. Professional Winterization
   Have a professional plumber perform a winterization inspection to identify vulnerable areas and ensure your pipes are prepared for cold weather. Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning offers winterization services that can help safeguard your home.

Emergency Measures if Your Pipes Freeze

If your pipes do freeze, taking quick action can help prevent them from bursting. Here’s what you should do:

1. Turn Off the Water
   Locate your home’s main water shutoff valve and turn it off to prevent flooding if the pipe bursts.
2. Open Faucets
   Open the affected faucets to relieve pressure in the pipes. This can help prevent them from bursting as the ice expands.
3. Thaw Frozen Pipes Carefully
   You can thaw frozen pipes using a space heater, heat lamp, or hairdryer. Start near the faucet and work your way back toward the frozen section. Never use an open flame, as this could damage the pipe and create a fire hazard.
4. Call a Professional
   If you’re unable to thaw the pipe, or if you suspect a pipe has already burst, contact a professional plumber immediately to assess and fix the problem.

For emergency plumbing assistance, reach out to Chisholm. Their experienced technicians can handle frozen pipes and prevent further damage.

Frozen Pipe Costs: Prevention vs. Repairs

Factor	Preventative Measures	Post-Freeze Repairs
Cost of Pipe Insulation	$50–$200 (for materials or basic insulation)	$1,000–$3,000 (depending on damage from burst pipes)
Water Damage Repair Costs	$0 (if pipes are protected)	$5,000–$10,000+ (for extensive water damage)
Energy Savings	Lower heating costs from insulated pipes	No savings, with potential for increased energy usage if repairs are delayed
Emergency Service Costs	$0 with preventative maintenance	$150–$500 (emergency plumber fees)
Long-Term System Integrity	Maintains system integrity for years	Shortened lifespan for pipes and fixtures due to freeze damage

As shown, the cost of preventative care is far lower than the expense of repairing frozen or burst pipes. Proactive measures not only save money but also avoid the stress and inconvenience of dealing with water damage.

Fun Facts About Plumbing and Freezing Pipes

1. Ice Can Split Metal: Water expands by about 9% when it freezes, creating enough pressure to burst even metal pipes, which is why frozen pipes are such a concern.
2. Early Solutions: Ancient civilizations like the Romans built elaborate heated baths using furnace-like systems to keep water warm—an early attempt to prevent freezing.
3. Modern Innovations: Smart water sensors and alarms can now detect potential freezing in pipes before the problem escalates, allowing homeowners to take action sooner.
4. Frost Line Knowledge: In colder regions, pipes are buried below the “frost line,” the depth at which soil freezes. While this is typically unnecessary in South Carolina, some homes with shallow pipes are still at risk.
5. Water-Freezes-At-32°F Fact: Even in warmer climates, nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing, making even southern homes vulnerable to frozen pipes if precautions aren’t taken.

FAQ: Common Questions About Winter Plumbing Care

1. How do I know if my pipes are at risk of freezing?
   Pipes located in unheated areas, such as attics, crawl spaces, garages, or exterior walls, are most at risk. If temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, these pipes should be insulated or otherwise protected.
2. What temperature causes pipes to freeze?
   Pipes typically begin to freeze when outdoor temperatures drop to 32°F or lower. However, pipes in poorly insulated or exposed areas may freeze even in slightly warmer conditions if temperatures stay low for extended periods.
3. Is it enough to just let my faucets drip?
   While allowing your faucets to drip can help prevent pipes from freezing, it’s best used as a temporary solution during especially cold nights. Combining it with pipe insulation and sealing drafts is a more comprehensive approach.
4. How can I thaw a frozen pipe safely?
   You can thaw a frozen pipe using a space heater, heat lamp, or hairdryer. Always start near the faucet and work backward along the frozen section. Avoid using open flames or high-intensity heat sources, which can damage the pipe or cause a fire hazard.
5. Should I shut off my water if I’m leaving town during winter?
   Yes, if you’re going to be away for an extended period during winter, it’s a good idea to shut off your main water supply and drain the pipes. This prevents any risk of flooding in case of frozen pipes while you’re away.
6. What should I do if a pipe bursts?
   Immediately turn off your home’s main water valve to stop water flow and contact a professional plumber. Do not attempt to fix a burst pipe yourself, as it can lead to more significant damage and water leakage.
7. Can I insulate my pipes myself, or should I call a plumber?
   Simple pipe insulation, such as using foam sleeves or heat tape, can be done as a DIY project. However, if your home has hard-to-reach pipes or if you’re unsure about the best method, calling a plumber is a good idea for professional winterization.
8. Does my homeowner’s insurance cover damage from frozen pipes?
   In many cases, homeowner’s insurance policies do cover water damage caused by burst pipes. However, coverage often depends on whether you took reasonable preventative measures, such as insulating pipes or keeping your home heated.

How Chisholm Can Help Protect Your Plumbing This Winter

Winter plumbing care is essential to avoid the frustration and expense of frozen pipes. At Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we specialize in preparing homes for winter by providing expert inspections, pipe insulation, and emergency plumbing services. Whether you need to winterize your home or handle a plumbing emergency, our team is here to help you avoid the worst of the winter freeze.

Contact us today to schedule your winter plumbing inspection or repair and ensure your pipes are well-protected during South Carolina’s coldest months.