New England’s Cold Spell Triggers Plumbing Crisis: How to Stay Prepared
As the New England region braves a spell of relentless cold, the demand for plumbing services, particularly around Boston, is soaring. Quincy-based Trust 1 Services reports a significant spike in service calls, with their daily numbers doubling. As homeowners grapple with failed heating systems and the looming threat of frozen and bursting pipes, the plumbing industry is feeling the pinch.
Rising Demand, Rising Challenges
Frozen pipes are the prime culprits, causing waterline bursts and leaving residents without water. This crisis has not only escalated the workload for businesses like Trust 1 Services but has also put the residents on high alert. The cold season, exacerbated by its persistence, has made plumbing emergencies a common occurrence.
Preventative Measures and Precautions
Technicians Matthew Patchell and Noah Hennessey from Trust 1 Services have stepped forward with advice for homeowners. They recommend a steady drip from faucets with both hot and cold water, insulating pipes, detaching hoses from house exteriors, and maintaining thermostats at 55 degrees when the house is vacant. These measures, they believe, can be instrumental in preventing plumbing failures and keeping homes safe and warm.
The Vulnerability of Older Buildings
Patchell and Hennessey caution that older buildings in Boston, plagued by poor insulation, are at a higher risk for plumbing issues. They emphasize that homeowners should have their heating systems regularly checked by professionals to prevent catastrophic failures during this cold spell. As the frigid weather is expected to continue into the weekend, the need for plumbing services will only intensify.
With the escalating demand for plumbing services, home improvement retailer B&Q is also witnessing a surge in sales and searches for cold weather products. Searches for draught excluders, window insulation, gas heaters, and electric heaters have spiked significantly, while snow and ice-related products have seen a 62% increase this week. Stephen Lodge, B&Q’s category director for building, underscores the importance of protecting homes during these harsh winter periods.
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