Essential Plumbing Cautions for a Safe School Holiday Winter Season in Perth
Winter holidays bring colder weather, cosy indoor time, and family gatherings but they also bring extra plumbing challenges. With kids at home and more water use during the chilly months, it’s important to take extra care of your plumbing to avoid unexpected issues. If you’re in Fremantle or anywhere around Perth, here are the key plumbing cautions to keep your home safe and comfortable this winter holiday season:
Hot Water Safety: Keep Water Warm but Safe
During winter, warm showers are a must, especially for kids. Make sure your water heater is set to around 50°C to prevent scalding but still provide comfortable warmth. This is crucial to avoid burns when kids use taps or showers.
Secure Outdoor Taps and Hoses Against Cold Weather
As temperatures drop, trapped water inside your exterior pipes expands, leading to cracks, bursts, and leaks. After use, ensure taps are tightly turned off and hoses are drained and stored safely to prevent freezing, leaks, or flooding hazards.
Check for Leaks and Standing Water to Prevent Cold Damage
Having kids at home means more indoor water use during winter, leaks can worsen and cause damage like mould or frost issues specially if your house is located near the coast. Regularly inspect taps, toilets, and pipes for leaks, and clear any standing water that could freeze or create slippery surfaces.
Childproof Toilet Lids and Bathroom Doors
Wet floors and cold bathrooms can be hazardous. Use toilet locks to keep kids safe and keep bathroom doors closed or supervised to avoid slips and accidents.
Keep Plumbing Chemicals Locked Away Safely
Cold weather can cause plumbing blockages, tempting some to use chemical drain cleaners. Keep these chemicals locked away and out of children’s reach at all times.
Avoid Overflow Risks with Tap Timers or Shutoffs
Kids may enjoy warmer baths or spend more time indoors. Prevent accidental overflows by installing tap timers or automatic shutoff valves to control water flow, keep an eye of soap bubbles if you have a water tub.
Supervise Water Play Areas and Pool Safety
Even in winter, pools, spas, and water features can pose drowning risks. Ensure fences and gates comply with WA safety laws to keep kids safe around water.
Educate Kids on Responsible Water Use
Encourage children not to flush unsuitable items down toilets or drains, which can block pipes and cause costly repairs, especially problematic in cold weather.
Avoid Hanging Decorations on Pipes and Fixtures
Winter holiday decorations are lovely, but avoid placing them on or near plumbing pipes and fixtures to prevent damage and leaks.
Prepare Gutters and Drains for Winter Storms
Winter in Fremantle can bring heavy rains and storms. Keep gutters, drains, and downpipes clear of leaves and debris to prevent flooding and water damage to your home.
Stay Warm and Worry-Free This Winter
Taking these plumbing precautions will help protect your home during the busy winter holidays. If you need assistance with your plumbing system or want a safety inspection, contact The Plumbing Gas Heroes for a friendly service.
Enjoy the winter season with peace of mind and a cosy, safe home!