As the local population is well aware, winter in Chaffee County brings freezing temperatures, and ensuring your home’s plumbing is ready is essential. Providence Plumbing owner Coulter Rauch shared his expert advice to help residents stay warm and maintain hot water throughout the season.

  1. Consider the age of your boiler: “If your boiler is over 20 years old and is having issues, I would consider replacing it,” Rauch said. Original parts for older water heaters are often unavailable, and custom parts can be costly. Additionally, older boilers tend to run inefficiently, leading to higher utility bills. If your boiler needs frequent repairs, it might be time to invest in a replacement — think of it like upgrading an old car that you would otherwise keep having to repair.

  1. Optimize your thermostat and water heater use: “Strategic thermostat scheduling can save you money and hassle,” Rauch advised. He recommended increasing your thermostat settings ahead of cold weather to prevent overworking your system. While some residents use variable schedules for their water heaters, Rauch warned that this can lead to inefficiency in colder months. “It’s best to set the temperature to be as consistent as possible,” he said.

  1. Upgrade to a heat pump boiler: For homes using propane or electricity, heat pump boilers can be a game-changer. These systems draw heat from the air without high energy consumption. Rauch noted they’re more efficient than electric boilers and may qualify for energy rebates, saving homeowners even more.

  1. Inspect your pipe insulation: Finally, Rauch stressed the importance of insulating pipes to protect them from freezing. Uninsulated pipes can be prone to failure due to extreme cold. Unsure how to check? Call a professional for an evaluation — it’s a small step that can prevent big headaches.

For expert plumbing help this winter, contact Providence Plumbing and stay warm with peace of mind.

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