Month: August 2026

How Do I Prevent My Pipes from Freezing During a Minnesota Cold Snap?

Prevent frozen pipes during Minnesota cold snaps by keeping cabinet doors open under sinks along exterior walls, allowing faucets to drip slightly during extreme cold, and maintaining your home temperature at 55°F minimum even when away. Use pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape in unheated spaces like garages and crawl spaces. Older homes in Golden Valley, St. Louis Park, and Edina often have inadequate insulation in rim joist areas.

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Serious Minnesota Winter Concern

Minnesota winters can be brutal, with temperatures plunging well below zero for days at a time. These extreme cold snaps put your home’s plumbing system at significant risk. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands, creating immense pressure that can cause pipes to crack or burst. A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water per hour, causing thousands of dollars in water damage to your home’s structure, insulation, drywall, flooring, and personal belongings.

For Twin Cities homeowners, especially those in older properties throughout Golden Valley, St. Louis Park, and Edina, taking preventative measures isn’t just recommended—it’s essential for avoiding costly emergency repairs during the coldest months of the year.

Effective Strategies to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Keep the Heat Flowing

One of the most important preventative measures is maintaining adequate heat throughout your home:

Set your thermostat no lower than 55°F, even when you’re away from home
Keep interior doors open to allow heat to circulate to all areas
Seal drafts around windows and doors to retain heat
Consider a smart thermostat that alerts you to dangerous temperature drops

During particularly severe cold snaps (below -10°F), consider temporarily increasing your home’s temperature by a few degrees, especially at night when temperatures typically reach their lowest point.

Identify and Protect Vulnerable Areas

Not all pipes in your home face equal risk of freezing. Focus your prevention efforts on these high-risk areas:

Pipes running along exterior walls
Plumbing in unheated spaces (garages, attics, crawl spaces)
Water supply lines in basements
Pipes near concrete foundations
Outdoor spigots and irrigation systems

For older homes in Minneapolis suburbs like Edina and St. Louis Park, pay special attention to rim joist areas where insulation is often inadequate or has deteriorated over time.

Insulation Is Key

Proper insulation serves as your first line of defense against freezing pipes:

Install foam pipe insulation sleeves on exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas
Consider heat tape or heat cables for pipes in extremely vulnerable locations
Add insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces to maintain higher ambient temperatures
Check the insulation around rim joists where pipes often enter from outside

For particularly challenging areas, consult with a professional plumber about installing dedicated pipe heating systems designed for extreme Minnesota winters.

When the Temperature Plummets

During extreme cold events, take these additional precautions:

Open cabinet doors beneath sinks on exterior walls to allow warm air circulation
Allow faucets connected to vulnerable pipes to drip slightly (moving water is less likely to freeze)
Disconnect and drain garden hoses, and shut off interior valves supplying outdoor faucets
If you’ll be away, have someone check your home daily, or consider shutting off the main water supply and draining the system

Early Warning Signs of Freezing Pipes

Knowing the warning signs can help you address problems before pipes burst:

Reduced water flow from faucets
Strange odors from drains or faucets
Unusual sounds when using water fixtures
Frost visible on exposed pipes
Bulging pipes

If you notice any of these signs, contact a professional plumber immediately.

Preparing for Extended Absences

Planning a winter getaway during Minnesota’s coldest months? Take these additional steps:

Have a trusted friend or family member check your home regularly
Consider shutting off the main water supply and draining the system
Install a temperature monitoring system that alerts you to dangerous drops
Never set your thermostat below 55°F, even if you’re trying to save on heating costs

What To Do If Your Pipes Do Freeze

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you likely have a frozen pipe. Take these steps:

Keep the faucet open – as the frozen area begins to melt, flowing water helps melt the ice
Apply heat to the frozen section using an electric heating pad, hair dryer, or towels soaked in hot water
Never use an open flame device
Call Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning for immediate professional assistance if you cannot locate or thaw the frozen section

Trust the Local Winter Plumbing Experts

Minnesota’s extreme winters demand specialized knowledge of cold-weather plumbing issues. At Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, we’ve been helping homeowners throughout Golden Valley, St. Louis Park, Edina, and the greater Twin Cities area protect their plumbing systems for years.

Don’t wait for a plumbing emergency during the next polar vortex. Contact us today at (952) 260-8584 to schedule a winter plumbing inspection or to learn more about our freeze prevention services. Our experienced technicians can identify vulnerable areas in your home’s plumbing system and recommend the most effective protective measures for your specific situation.

What Should I Do When My Sump Pump Fails During Spring Flooding?

If your sump pump fails during spring flooding, switch to a backup power source or use a portable utility pump. Unplug the failed pump, remove standing water, and move valuables. Rapid response is critical during spring thaw to prevent foundation damage and mold growth.

Understanding Sump Pump Failures During Spring Flooding

Spring flooding creates the perfect storm for sump pump failures right when you need them most. As snow melts and seasonal rains intensify, your sump pump system faces its greatest challenge of the year. Unfortunately, this is precisely when pumps tend to fail, whether from power outages, mechanical issues, or simply being overwhelmed by excessive water volume.

At Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, we see a significant uptick in emergency calls during spring thaw periods. Understanding why pumps fail can help you prepare better and respond appropriately when problems arise.

Common reasons for spring sump pump failures include:

Power outages during storms
Mechanical wear after winter dormancy
Clogged intake screens from debris
Switch malfunctions
Overwhelmed capacity from excessive water volume
Frozen or blocked discharge pipes

Immediate Steps When Your Sump Pump Fails

1. Activate Backup Systems

If you have a battery backup sump pump installed, ensure it’s functioning properly. These systems automatically kick in when your primary pump fails or when power is lost. If you don’t have a backup system, consider using:

A portable generator to power your existing pump
A water-powered backup pump (if available in your home)
A portable utility pump that can be quickly deployed

2. Safety First: Electrical Precautions

Before attempting any repairs or alternatives:

Turn off power to the failed pump at your electrical panel
Unplug the pump if water hasn’t reached electrical outlets
Never wade into standing water where electrical devices are present
Use battery-operated lights instead of hardwired fixtures in flooded areas

3. Remove Water and Protect Valuables

Limiting damage becomes the next priority:

Use buckets, mops, wet/dry vacuums, or portable pumps to remove standing water
Move valuable items to higher ground or upper floors
Place furniture on blocks or remove it from affected areas
Roll up carpets and remove if possible

DIY Troubleshooting Before Professional Help Arrives

While waiting for professional assistance, you may be able to identify simple issues:

Check Power Supply

Verify the pump is plugged in securely
Test the outlet with another device
Check circuit breakers and reset if tripped

Inspect the Float Switch

Ensure the float isn’t stuck or obstructed
Manually lift the float to see if pump activates
Clean any debris that might be interfering with operation

Examine Discharge Pipes

Look for blockages, kinks, or freeze damage
Ensure check valves are functioning properly
Verify the discharge point is clear of debris or ice

Long-Term Solutions to Prevent Future Failures

After addressing the immediate emergency, consider these preventative measures:

Install a Complete Backup System

Modern backup systems offer multiple layers of protection:

Battery backup pumps that operate during power outages
Water-powered backup systems that require no electricity
Dual-pump systems that share the water load
Alarm systems that alert you to pump failures or high water

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Prevent future emergencies with routine care:

Quarterly testing of primary and backup systems
Annual professional inspection before flood season
Clean intake screens and check valves regularly
Replace batteries in backup systems according to manufacturer recommendations

Consider Capacity Upgrades

If your current system struggles with spring flooding:

Upgrade to a higher-capacity primary pump
Install a wider discharge pipe
Add a secondary sump basin for improved collection
Implement exterior drainage improvements to reduce water entry

When to Call Professional Help

While some troubleshooting can be done yourself, certain situations demand immediate professional intervention:

Standing water has reached electrical outlets or panels
Water is rising rapidly despite your efforts
You suspect damage to foundation walls or structures
The pump has failed multiple times in a short period
You smell gas or see other utility hazards

Protecting Your Home Beyond the Basement

A comprehensive approach to spring flooding includes:

Extending downspouts away from foundation walls
Grading soil to slope away from the home
Installing window well covers to prevent direct water entry
Applying waterproof sealants to foundation walls
Considering exterior french drains or perimeter drainage systems

Contact Bedrock Plumbing for Emergency Sump Pump Service

Don’t let a failed sump pump threaten your home’s foundation and safety. Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning offers 24/7 emergency service throughout the spring flooding season. Our experienced technicians arrive equipped to handle any sump pump emergency and can provide both immediate solutions and long-term recommendations.

Contact us immediately for sump pump failures, and ask about our preventative maintenance programs to keep your basement dry year-round. Remember, when it comes to spring flooding, fast action saves both money and precious belongings. Call Bedrock Plumbing today!

Tankless Water Heaters in Minnesota: Pros, Cons & Costs

A straight guide to tankless water heaters for Twin Cities homeowners. Pros, cons, real energy savings, lifespan, hard water maintenance, and how Bedrock Plumbing installs them right.

How Often Should I Have My Drains Professionally Cleaned?

Professional drain cleaning every 18-24 months is recommended for most households, while annual service is advised for older plumbing systems. However, certain warning signs call for immediate professional attention regardless of timing – these include persistently slow drains, recurring clogs in the same location, multiple fixture backups simultaneously, or gurgling noises from drains. Homes over 25 years old typically benefit from professional hydro-jetting services to remove accumulated buildup that regular maintenance can’t address.

Understanding Drain Cleaning Frequency

The recommended timeline for professional drain cleaning isn’t one-size-fits-all. While the general guideline of every 18-24 months works for many homes, several factors influence how frequently your specific plumbing system needs professional attention. The age of your plumbing, household size, usage patterns, and what goes down your drains all play significant roles.

In Mesa, Arizona, our unique water composition and climate conditions can accelerate mineral buildup in pipes, potentially necessitating more frequent professional cleaning than in other regions. Hard water deposits combine with typical substances like soap, hair, and food particles to create stubborn clogs that household methods simply can’t eliminate effectively.

Factors That May Require More Frequent Cleaning

Several circumstances might indicate your home needs professional drain cleaning more often:

Large households: More people mean more shower, toilet, and kitchen drain usage
Homes with trees: Root intrusion into sewer lines is a common problem in established neighborhoods
Older homes: Pipes in homes built before 1970 often have more irregular surfaces where debris accumulates
Cooking habits: Homes where significant amounts of cooking oil, grease, or food waste enter drains
Hair shedding: Households with long-haired family members or pets often experience more frequent bathroom drain clogs

Warning Signs You Need Professional Drain Cleaning Now

Don’t wait for your scheduled maintenance if you notice these red flags that indicate immediate professional attention is required:

Multiple Slow Drains

When several drains throughout your home begin draining slowly simultaneously, this typically indicates a problem in your main sewer line rather than individual fixture issues. This situation requires prompt professional evaluation to prevent a potential sewage backup.

Recurring Clogs in the Same Location

If you’re repeatedly clearing the same drain with DIY methods like plungers or chemical cleaners, you likely have a deeper obstruction that home remedies cannot reach. Professional equipment can address the root cause rather than temporarily alleviating symptoms.

Unusual Sounds from Drains

Gurgling noises when water drains indicate air trapped in your pipes, often caused by partial blockages. These sounds suggest water isn’t flowing freely and buildup is restricting proper drainage – a situation that typically worsens over time without intervention.

Foul Odors

Persistent unpleasant smells emanating from drains often indicate organic material decomposing within your pipes. Beyond being unpleasant, these conditions can harbor bacteria and potentially impact indoor air quality.

Professional Drain Cleaning Methods

At Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, we employ several advanced techniques depending on your specific situation:

Drain Snaking/Augers

Professional-grade drain snakes reach much further than consumer models, addressing clogs deep within your plumbing system. Our specialized equipment can navigate through pipe bends and effectively clear blockages without damaging pipes.

Hydro-Jetting

This powerful cleaning method uses high-pressure water to scour pipe interiors, removing years of accumulated buildup, grease, mineral deposits, and even tree roots. Hydro-jetting is particularly effective for:

Older homes with significant buildup
Properties with tree root intrusion
Restaurants or homes with grease-related drainage issues
Preparation for pipe inspection or repair work

Video Camera Inspection

Sometimes, understanding the underlying cause of drainage problems requires seeing inside your pipes. Our advanced camera equipment allows us to identify issues like cracks, bellied pipes, or invasive tree roots that might be causing recurring problems.

Preventative Maintenance Between Professional Cleanings

While professional service is essential, these practices help maintain your drains between visits:

Install drain screens/guards in showers and sinks to catch hair and debris
Avoid flushing “flushable” wipes, feminine hygiene products, or paper towels
Dispose of cooking grease in the trash, not down drains
Run hot water after each use of kitchen drains
Use bacterial drain cleaners monthly to naturally maintain clear pipes
Pour a pot of boiling water down drains weekly to help dissolve buildup

Schedule Your Professional Drain Cleaning Today

Don’t wait until emergency situations force your hand. Preventative professional drain cleaning is more cost-effective than emergency service and helps avoid water damage, unpleasant odors, and the inconvenience of unusable plumbing fixtures.

Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning provides comprehensive drain cleaning services throughout Mesa and surrounding areas. Our experienced technicians use advanced equipment to thoroughly clear your drains and can recommend the ideal maintenance schedule for your specific home situation.

Contact us today at (952) 260-8584 or visit our website to schedule your professional drain cleaning service. Our team is ready to help ensure your plumbing system functions properly for years to come.

Why Is My Water Heater Leaking from the Bottom?

A water heater leaking from the bottom typically indicates a faulty drain valve, condensation buildup, or internal tank corrosion causing tank failure. Persistent leaks around the base usually mean corrosion and require full replacement. Leaks from valves or connections may be repairable.

Common Causes of Water Heater Bottom Leaks

Discovering water pooling around the base of your water heater can be alarming. Not only does it pose potential water damage risks to your home, but it also signals something is wrong with your water heating system. Understanding the underlying causes can help you determine whether a simple repair will suffice or if you’re facing a complete replacement.

Faulty Drain Valve

The drain valve is located at the bottom of your water heater and is used for maintenance purposes like flushing sediment from the tank. Over time, this valve can become loose or damaged.

If you notice water leaking specifically from this valve, check if it’s completely closed. Sometimes, the valve isn’t fully tightened after maintenance. If the valve is closed but still leaking, the valve itself may be worn out or damaged.

Good news: A faulty drain valve is one of the more straightforward and less expensive water heater repairs. A professional plumber can replace the valve without needing to replace the entire unit.

Condensation vs. Actual Leaks

Before panicking, determine if what you’re seeing is actually a leak or just condensation. Condensation can form on the tank’s exterior when there’s a significant temperature difference between the hot tank and the cool air in your basement or utility room.

To distinguish between condensation and a leak:

Wipe the water away and observe if it returns immediately
Check if water is actively dripping or simply appearing as moisture
Look for water specifically pooling underneath the tank

Condensation typically resolves itself once the temperature equalizes or when humidity levels in your home decrease. If it’s just condensation, no repair is needed.

Internal Tank Corrosion

Unfortunately, the most serious cause of bottom leaks is internal tank corrosion. Water heaters have a limited lifespan (typically 8-12 years) because the constant heating and cooling cycles eventually cause the internal steel tank to deteriorate.

Signs that corrosion is your culprit include:

Rusty-colored water
Persistent leaking despite valve checks
Water heater age exceeding 10 years
Popping or rumbling sounds (indicating sediment buildup that accelerates corrosion)

When internal corrosion causes tank failure, replacement is the only solution. Attempting repairs on a corroded tank is ineffective and potentially dangerous.

Immediate Steps to Take When You Discover a Leak

1. Shut Off Power to the Water Heater

Safety first! Before investigating further:

For electric water heaters: Turn off the dedicated circuit breaker
For gas water heaters: Set the thermostat to the “pilot” position

2. Shut Off the Water Supply

Locate the cold water supply valve on the pipe leading into the top of your water heater and turn it clockwise to stop additional water from entering the tank.

3. Determine the Leak Source

Carefully inspect where the water is coming from:

Check the drain valve (usually a plastic or brass spigot near the bottom)
Look for water coming from the pressure relief valve discharge pipe
Observe if water seems to be seeping from the tank itself
Examine connecting pipes and fittings for moisture

4. Call a Professional Plumber

Unless the issue is clearly a loose drain valve that you can tighten yourself, water heater repairs typically require professional expertise. Attempting DIY fixes on water heaters can lead to:

Personal injury from scalding water or electrical hazards
Further damage to the unit
Voiding manufacturer warranties
Potential code violations

Preventative Maintenance to Avoid Future Leaks

Regular maintenance can significantly extend your water heater’s life and prevent unexpected leaks:

Annual flushing to remove sediment buildup
Checking and replacing the anode rod every 3-5 years
Setting appropriate temperature (120°F-130°F is generally recommended)
Inspecting valves and connections yearly
Installing a water softener if you have hard water

When to Replace Your Water Heater

Sometimes, repair isn’t the most cost-effective option. Consider replacement if:

Your water heater is over 10 years old
The tank itself is compromised by corrosion
You’ve had multiple repair issues in recent years
Your water heating needs have changed (family size increase, etc.)

Modern water heaters offer improved efficiency, potentially saving you money on energy bills while providing more reliable hot water.

Need Help With Your Leaking Water Heater?

At Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, our experienced technicians can quickly diagnose your water heater issues and recommend the most cost-effective solution, whether that’s repair or replacement. Don’t let a small leak turn into a major problem—contact us today for prompt, professional service throughout the local area. We’ll help ensure your home has reliable hot water and protection from water damage!

Why Is My Water Bill Higher Than Normal?

High water bills are typically caused by hidden leaks, increased water consumption, or mechanical issues like running toilets. The average household wastes nearly 10,000 gallons annually from easily fixable leaks. To identify the source, check your water meter, inspect all toilets and faucets for leaks, and examine outdoor irrigation systems for damage or excessive usage.

Common Causes of Unexpectedly High Water Bills

A sudden spike in your water bill can be alarming, especially when your water usage habits haven’t changed. At Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, we regularly help Portland homeowners solve the mystery of skyrocketing water bills. Understanding the potential causes can help you address the issue quickly and prevent unnecessary water waste and expense.

Hidden Water Leaks

One of the most common culprits behind elevated water bills is a hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing system. These silent water thieves can waste hundreds of gallons before you notice any visible signs.

Under-slab leaks: Water lines beneath your home’s foundation can develop leaks that go undetected for months
Wall leaks: Pipes within walls can slowly leak, causing gradual water damage and increasing your bill
Outdoor line leaks: Underground irrigation lines or the main water line to your home may develop cracks or breaks

Even a small leak can waste surprising amounts of water. A pinhole-sized leak can waste approximately 170 gallons per day, or over 5,000 gallons per month. This alone can increase your bill by $50-$100 depending on local water rates.

Toilet Problems

Toilets are notorious for water waste when malfunctioning. A running toilet can use up to 200 gallons of water daily – that’s equivalent to taking 10 extra showers every day!

Common toilet issues include:

Faulty flapper valves that don’t seal properly
Malfunctioning fill valves that continuously run
Silent leaks that occur without the obvious sound of running water

To check for toilet leaks, place food coloring in the tank and wait 15 minutes without flushing. If color appears in the bowl, you have a leak that needs repair.

Seasonal Usage Changes

Many homeowners experience bill fluctuations due to seasonal activities:

Summer irrigation: Lawn and garden watering can dramatically increase consumption
Swimming pool filling: Adding or topping off a pool requires thousands of gallons
Holiday gatherings: Having extra guests means more showers, toilet flushes, and dishwasher cycles
Pressure washing: Spring cleaning that includes pressure washing driveways and siding uses substantial water

Faulty Water Meter or Billing Errors

While less common, meter problems or billing mistakes do happen:

Mechanical water meters can malfunction, especially older models
Billing departments occasionally make errors in reading or recording usage
Recent rate increases may have been implemented without clear notification

How to Investigate Your High Water Bill

Check Your Water Meter

Your water meter is your best tool for detecting leaks:

Turn off all water in your home (including ice makers and irrigation systems)
Record the number on your water meter
Wait 2-3 hours without using any water
Check the meter again – if it has changed, you likely have a leak

Inspect All Fixtures and Appliances

Thoroughly examine:

Toilets: Listen for hissing or running sounds, perform the dye test
Faucets: Check for drips or moisture around handles and spouts
Appliances: Inspect connections to dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters
Showerheads: Look for constant dripping or moisture when not in use

Review Your Water Usage Habits

Consider recent changes that might explain increased consumption:

New household members or frequent guests
Recently installed water-using appliances or fixtures
Changes in landscaping or irrigation practices
Home improvement projects that required water use

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While some causes of high water bills can be easily identified and fixed by homeowners, others require professional expertise:

Hidden leaks: Detection equipment like acoustic sensors, thermal cameras, and pressure testing are needed for concealed leaks
Slab leaks: These serious problems require specialized repair approaches
Main line issues: Problems with the water service line require excavation equipment and expertise
Meter verification: Professionals can test meter accuracy if you suspect malfunction

At Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, our experienced technicians have the tools and knowledge to locate even the most elusive leaks throughout your Portland home’s plumbing system.

Preventing Future High Water Bills

Once you’ve addressed the immediate cause of your high bill, consider these preventative measures:

Install water-efficient fixtures and appliances
Regularly check for leaks using the meter test quarterly
Consider smart water monitoring systems that alert you to unusual usage
Establish a maintenance schedule for plumbing inspections

Need Help With Your High Water Bill?

If you’ve investigated the common causes but still can’t identify why your water bill is higher than normal, it’s time to call the professionals. Our team at Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning specializes in comprehensive leak detection and repair services throughout Portland and surrounding areas. We use non-invasive techniques to locate hidden leaks and provide cost-effective solutions to prevent water waste and protect your home.

Contact us today at (952) 260-8584 to schedule a professional inspection and stop throwing money down the drain with unnecessarily high water bills.

What Is a Pressure Reducing Valve and Do I Need One?

A Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is a crucial plumbing component that regulates municipal water pressure to maintain safe levels (typically 45-60 PSI) within your home’s plumbing system. PRVs are necessary if your incoming water pressure exceeds 80 PSI to prevent damage to pipes, appliances, and fixtures. Without this protection, excessive pressure can lead to premature plumbing failures, water hammer, and increased water bills. Older homes in particular often lack PRVs, making them vulnerable to pressure-related issues.

How Pressure Reducing Valves Work

Pressure reducing valves function as mechanical gatekeepers in your plumbing system. Installed on your main water line after it enters your home, these devices use a spring-loaded diaphragm mechanism to automatically regulate water pressure. When water pressure from the municipal supply exceeds your valve’s preset limit, the valve partially closes to restrict flow, ensuring consistent and safe pressure throughout your home.

The beauty of a PRV is that once properly installed and adjusted, it works passively without requiring any maintenance for years. Most valves can be fine-tuned to deliver optimal pressure based on your specific needs, typically between 45-60 PSI, which provides good water flow without putting stress on your plumbing system.

Signs You May Need a Pressure Reducing Valve

Not sure if your home needs a PRV? Here are key indicators that your water pressure might be too high:

Audible Plumbing Symptoms

Water hammer (loud banging noises when you turn off faucets)
Whistling or screeching pipes when using water
Running toilets that never seem to stop filling

Visible Warning Signs

Leaking faucets throughout your home
Dripping showerheads even when turned off
Frequent leaks in water supply lines to toilets or appliances
Water heater pressure relief valve activating regularly

Performance Issues

Appliances like washing machines and dishwashers failing prematurely
Unexpected increases in water bills without change in usage
Spraying, splashing faucets when turned on fully

If you’re experiencing several of these symptoms, it’s worth having your water pressure tested by a professional plumber.

Benefits of Installing a Pressure Reducing Valve

Extended Plumbing System Lifespan

High water pressure is like having your plumbing system constantly operate under stress. By maintaining proper pressure levels, a PRV can significantly extend the life of your pipes, fittings, appliances, and fixtures. This means fewer emergency repairs and replacement costs over time.

Water Conservation and Lower Bills

Excessive water pressure forces more water through your fixtures than necessary. A PRV can reduce water consumption by 30% or more, translating to meaningful savings on your monthly water bill. This conservation aspect makes PRVs both economically and environmentally beneficial.

Reduced Risk of Catastrophic Leaks

Perhaps the most significant benefit is protection against sudden, major plumbing failures. High pressure can cause pipes to rupture or connections to fail when you’re not home, potentially causing thousands of dollars in water damage. A properly functioning PRV dramatically reduces this risk.

Improved Appliance Performance

Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters are designed to operate at specific pressure ranges. When provided with properly regulated water pressure, these appliances function more efficiently and last longer.

Do You Need a Pressure Reducing Valve?

The simplest way to determine if you need a PRV is to measure your home’s water pressure. This can be done with an inexpensive pressure gauge that attaches to an outdoor spigot. Here’s how to check:

Attach a water pressure gauge to an outside faucet
Make sure no water is being used inside or outside the home
Turn on the faucet and read the pressure gauge
If the reading exceeds 80 PSI, you should install a PRV

In many municipalities, water pressure can range from 60 to well over 100 PSI depending on your location and elevation relative to the water supply. If you live downhill from a water tower or in an area known for high pressure, a PRV is particularly important.

Professional Installation Considerations

While PRVs are relatively simple devices, professional installation is recommended for several reasons:

Proper sizing based on your home’s specific water demands
Expert placement to ensure optimal performance
Adjustment to the ideal pressure for your specific plumbing system
Addition of bypass valves and pressure gauges for monitoring and maintenance

At Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, our licensed plumbers can evaluate your water pressure, recommend the appropriate valve, and provide professional installation that ensures long-term protection for your plumbing system.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve determined your home has high water pressure, or you’re experiencing symptoms that suggest a pressure issue, it’s time to consult with a professional plumber. Our team at Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning can assess your situation, recommend the right solution, and provide expert installation to protect your home’s plumbing system.

Contact us today to schedule a water pressure evaluation and learn more about how a pressure reducing valve can save your plumbing system and reduce your water bills. Your pipes—and your wallet—will thank you!

Should I Open Cabinet Doors During Extreme Cold?

Yes, opening cabinet doors under sinks during subzero cold is highly recommended to allow warm air circulation around plumbing, reducing freeze risk. This simple action helps prevent frozen pipes by ensuring the home’s heated air can reach vulnerable plumbing. For maximum protection, combine this practice with dripping faucets and maintaining a minimum indoor temperature of 55°F, especially in extremely cold weather.

Why Opening Cabinet Doors Protects Your Pipes

When temperatures plummet below freezing, your home’s plumbing system becomes vulnerable to one of winter’s most destructive forces: frozen pipes. Pipes located in exterior walls or under sinks in cabinets are particularly at risk because they’re often in spaces that receive less heat than the rest of your home. Opening cabinet doors is a simple yet effective strategy to protect these vulnerable pipes.

Under normal circumstances, closed cabinet doors create a barrier that blocks the warm air in your home from reaching the pipes. During extreme cold, the temperature inside these enclosed spaces can drop significantly lower than your home’s ambient temperature. By opening the doors, you allow heated air to circulate freely around the plumbing, maintaining a temperature above freezing.

The Science Behind Pipe Freezing

Pipes freeze when the water inside them reaches 32°F (0°C). When water freezes, it expands by approximately 9%, creating tremendous pressure inside the pipe. This pressure can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to costly water damage repairs.

Most homes maintain interior temperatures well above freezing, but the challenge occurs in areas where pipes are exposed to exterior walls or unheated spaces. Cabinets under sinks often back up to exterior walls, creating cold spots where pipes are susceptible to freezing, even when your home feels warm overall.

Complete Cold Weather Pipe Protection Strategy

Opening cabinet doors should be part of a comprehensive approach to protecting your plumbing during extreme cold:

1. Open All Relevant Cabinet Doors

Focus on cabinets that contain plumbing, especially those along exterior walls. This includes:

Under kitchen sinks
Bathroom vanities
Utility sinks in laundry rooms or basements
Any cabinets housing water lines on exterior walls

For maximum effectiveness, open these doors several hours before temperatures are expected to drop below freezing.

2. Keep Faucets Dripping

Allow cold water to drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Even a trickle of water helps prevent freezing by keeping water moving through the system. Running water is much less likely to freeze than standing water.

3. Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperature

Set your thermostat no lower than 55°F, even when you’re away from home. While it might be tempting to lower the temperature to save on heating costs, the potential expense of repairing water damage from burst pipes far outweighs any energy savings.

4. Add Extra Insulation Where Needed

Consider adding pipe insulation to particularly vulnerable areas. Foam pipe sleeves can be easily installed without professional help and provide additional protection against freezing.

Special Considerations for Extreme Conditions

During particularly severe cold snaps (temperatures below 0°F or -18°C), take additional precautions:

Use a space heater (safely positioned) to add extra warmth near vulnerable plumbing
Remove items from under-sink cabinets to improve air circulation
Consider using a fan to direct warm air into opened cabinets
If you have a crawl space, ensure vents are closed to retain heat

When to Take Preventative Action

Don’t wait until temperatures drop to dangerous levels. Monitor weather forecasts and implement these protective measures when:

Temperatures are predicted to fall below 20°F (-7°C) for extended periods
Your home will be vacant during cold weather
You’ve experienced frozen pipes in the past
Your home is older or has known insulation issues

Preventing Frozen Pipes in Vacant Properties

If you’re leaving your home for an extended period during winter:

Set your thermostat to at least 55°F
Shut off the main water supply and drain the system
Have a friend or neighbor check on your home regularly
Consider installing a temperature monitoring system that alerts you to dangerous drops

What To Do If Your Pipes Freeze Despite Prevention

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you likely have a frozen pipe. In this situation:

Keep the faucet open
Apply gentle heat to the frozen section (hot towels, hair dryer, space heater)
Never use an open flame to thaw pipes
Call Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning immediately if you cannot locate or thaw the frozen section

Don’t wait for a plumbing emergency—contact Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning today for a comprehensive winter plumbing inspection or assistance with frozen pipe emergencies. Our experienced technicians serve the local area with prompt, professional service to keep your plumbing flowing safely all winter long.