Winterize Your Boiler's Pipes
Don't take any chances of having the condensate pipes to your boiler freeze this winter. If you prepare now, you can use your boiler on the coldest nights of the year without having to worry about it quitting. Frozen pipes can cause a multitude of problems, including having to replace portions that break due to the increased amount of pressure that is inside of them. Use some inexpensive materials to keep your boiler's pipes protected throughout the season.
Use These Materials
- thermal insulation
- thermal tape
- measuring tape
- utility knife
- scissors
- silicone caulk
- caulking gun
- portable heat lamp
- rechargeable battery
Wrap The Condensate Pipes
Condensation exits the boiler and leaves your home through pipes that are connected to it. The external portions of these pipes need to be covered to prevent freezing. Measure the length of each pipe and line up pieces of thermal insulation. This type of insulation comes pre-cut and easily wraps around pipes of all sizes. Place the pieces close together so that no parts of the plumbing are exposed. Cut pieces of thermal tape and place them across the gap on each piece. Trim excess insulation off with scissors or a utility knife.
Seal Cracks In The Wall
Do not allow any part of your interior pipes to freeze by keeping them protected from the outside temperatures. The condensate pipes will lead through the wall of your home to the outdoors. Place silicone caulk around the edge of each pipe so that no gaps are present. Cut the tip off of the tube of silicone caulk and insert it into a caulking gun. Squeeze an even layer on each part of the wall that needs additional coverage.
Add Extra Protection On Cold Nights
If the weather is predicted to be extremely cold, add further protection by setting up a heat lamp outside. If you do not have an outlet close to where the condensate pipes are, use a portable heat lamp. This type of lamp is safe to use outside. You will need to use a rechargeable battery to operate it. Be sure to have it charged up before using the lamp.
Your preparations will allow your home to stay warm, every night of the year. Be sure to remember that it is also important to have your boiler serviced by a licensed plumber or boiler service like G K Mechanical (1997) Ltd each year so that any problems can be addressed. By following these steps, your chances of running into any problems will be greatly reduced.
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