Expert Tips for Crown Point Residents to Protect Their Pipes During Winter

Crown Point, Indiana, gets most of its snow in February, with an average snowfall of 3.8 inches. The snow may look pretty, but the severe drop in temperature can spell problems for homeowners.

When the temperature reaches 32°F or below, your home’s pipes are at risk of freezing. When it reaches 20°F, it is almost certain that exposed pipes will freeze, especially if the temperature remains at that level for an extended time.

There is nothing you can do about the weather, but you can protect your plumbing system to prevent your pipes from freezing. The following guide provides practical tips to minimize the risk of frozen pipes in your Crown Point home.

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Why Do Pipes Burst When Frozen?

Before implementing strategies to protect your plumbing, knowing why you need to do it is important.

When the water inside a pipe freezes, the ice expands. The water pressure builds and pushes towards the closed faucet. Because the faucet remains closed, the pressure cannot be released (and because the ice is not melting yet).

This means the ice blocks the pipe and builds pressure, leading to a burst pipe. You want to prevent this from happening at all costs because a burst pipe can cause major damage to your home.

Apart from the water damage, you may have to contend with mold and mildew, which can make you and your family sick.

Preventing Pipes From Freezing and Bursting

Winter weather is unpredictable, so it is best to prepare well for extreme cold. You can install an app on your phone to keep track of the temperatures and snow warnings in Crown Point.

If there is an intense snowstorm or cold front on the horizon, it is crucial to protect your plumbing system.

A cost-effective way of doing this is insulating pipes in cold areas of your home. These pipes are usually found in garages, crawl spaces, and attics. You can get pre-slit foam or rubber pipe insulation to protect these pipes.

Remember that insulation alone is not enough to prevent pipes from freezing. You should set your thermostat to above 55°F. If you do not want to always to leave the heating system on, set the thermostat to switch on the heater periodically.

If you will not be at home for an extended time, it is best to drain the water out of your pipes as a precaution. Shut off your home’s main water supply valve and let the excess water in the pipes run out of the faucets.

You do not have to shut off the water if you are not going away. But you should let your faucets drip slightly. This will keep the water moving and help prevent freezing. The faucets should ideally be on an exterior wall and should be left to drip overnight.

Check Plumbing Pipes Regularly

Even if you implement all the above strategies, do not assume that the pipes will not freeze. Check your pipes regularly for signs of freezing. If there is a reduced flow from the faucets or visible ice on exposed pipes, it is a warning sign.

Pipes may also bulge or crack, or you may hear strange noises when you turn on a faucet.

While checking your pipes, do not forget about the outdoor pipes and fixtures. They are directly exposed to cold weather and need protection to keep them from freezing.

Always disconnect garden hoses and drain the water from them before winter sets in. Also, drain the water from outdoor faucets and hose bibs. Use insulated covers to protect outdoor spigots.

You should keep drinking water on hand in case your pipes freeze anyway. It is recommended that each family member keep a three-day water supply in your home.

What to Do With a Frozen Pipe

If you find a frozen pipe during your inspection, the first thing to do is shut off the water. When no more water is pushing against the ice blockage, try to warm the pipe using a hair dryer or heating pad.

If the pipe thaws, turn the water on slowly. Check for cracks or leaks in the pipe. Remember that if an exterior wall pipe freezes, you may need to cut a hole in your wall to access it. When you reach the pipe, apply heat and leave the pipe uncovered. Open the faucet so the water can drip as the ice melts.

The pipe has completely thawed if the water pressure returns to full strength. It is also important to insulate this pipe to protect it against future freezing.

If the pipe does not thaw, do not use kerosene heaters or open flames. Instead, call a professional plumber for a professional fix. A plumber can help you locate more frozen pipes and thaw them. This expert can also detect leaks or advise you whether a pipe needs to be replaced.

Protecting Your Plumbing System Can Save You Money

If you try to protect your plumbing pipes, there is a far lesser risk of them freezing and bursting. This will save you money on repairs. However, if you wait too long, the pipes may freeze before you have a chance to stop it from happening.

If you have not yet taken the steps to protect your plumbing system, there is no better time than now.

Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling Can Help You Protect Your Plumbing System

For reliable plumbing service and repair in Crown Point, turn to Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling. Whether you need frozen pipe prevention or emergency repairs for a burst pipe, we are here to help.

Book a maintenance appointment today and make the most of our local specials. Call 219-797-6150 for more information or schedule a service online.