It’s the time of the year where the energy bills get higher, here is how to avoid the extra cost and protect your pipes from cracking.
It’s the busiest time of the year for Danny Talbot, the local business owner of Mountain Drains and Plumbing.
The pipes can be fragile in the winter, “Everything freezes at 32 degrees.” said Talbot, “Copper pipe [will] freeze and it will expand and crack.”
The reparation cost can vary anywhere from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars, according to Talbot.
To prevent this all happening, Talbot recommends insulating pipes and running water in faucets when temperatures drop below freezing.
However, for some older structures, special challenges can be present.
Gail Riley, co-owner of the historical Lodge Highland Haven Creekside Inn in Evergreen, explains her winterproof plan.
“Windows are double sealed. Closing the curtains keeps it at a maintained temperature.” Said Riley.
And if you have a fireplace, experts say that homeowners can also convert their fireplaces to boost energy efficiency.