If you’ve ever walked outside to find your car covered in a sheet of ice, you know how harsh our winters can be. Not only can freezing temps make getting out of the house in a timely fashion a challenge, but they can also put your home’s plumbing system at risk. Frozen pipes can become especially problematic is they thaw and burst, causing significant water damage to your home and valuables. So, what can a concerned homeowner like you do? By taking a few preventative measures.
Here’s how to safeguard your home against frozen pipes this winter.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
One of the most effective ways to prevent pipes from freezing is to insulate those that are exposed to cold temperatures. Pipes in attics, basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are particularly vulnerable. Use foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or pipe sleeves to cover the pipes to help retain heat and keep the temperature around the pipes above freezing.
2. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Cold air can sneak into your home through small gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and in the foundation. These cold drafts can lower the temperature of pipes, increasing the risk of freezing. Inspect your home for any potential openings and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. Pay close attention to areas where pipes enter the home, such as where plumbing passes through walls, ceilings, or floors.
3. Keep Your Thermostat Consistent
It might be tempting to lower the thermostat when you’re away to save energy, but it’s important to maintain a consistent temperature during the winter months. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you’re not home. Lower temperatures can cause pipes to freeze, especially in uninsulated or poorly heated areas.
4. Allow Faucets to Drip
In extremely cold weather, it can help to leave your faucets slightly open, allowing a small stream of water to flow through the pipes. This is especially important for pipes that run along exterior walls or in unheated spaces. Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water, reducing the risk of a pipe freeze-up.
5. Open Cabinet Doors
Pipes running under kitchen and bathroom sinks are vulnerable to freezing, especially if they are located against an exterior wall. On cold nights, open the cabinet doors beneath sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes. This will help prevent freezing in hard-to-reach places.
6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Outdoor faucets are also susceptible to freezing. Before the first freeze, disconnect hoses from outdoor spigots and store them in a shed or garage. For additional protection, consider installing an insulated cover on outdoor faucets.
7. Know How to Respond to a Frozen Pipe
Even with the best precautions, a pipe may still freeze. If you suspect a frozen pipe, shut off the water supply to that pipe and apply gentle heat using a hair dryer, space heater, or a warm towel. Do not use an open flame like a torch, as this can damage the pipe or cause a fire. If you can’t locate the frozen pipe or if the pipe bursts, contact Pann Home Services & Remodeling immediately to avoid further damage. Our team of expert plumbers is ready to assist day or night. Contact us today or any time for all your plumbing repair needs.
