How to Protect Your Pipes from Freezing
Preventing pipes from freezing is crucial during cold weather to avoid costly damage and inconvenience. Keep in mind, while some simple preventive measures can be carried out by homeowners, calling a professional here at Summers is particularly beneficial when dealing with more complex issues, extensive installations, or if you are unsure about how to best protect your specific plumbing system from freezing. It’s an investment that can ultimately save you money and stress by preventing potential damage to your home.
Keep reading to learn some tips and tricks to prevent frozen pipes, as well as steps to take if your pipes do freeze:
Insulate Your Pipes:
Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to insulate exposed pipes in unheated or inadequately insulated places, such as crawl spaces, basements, and attics.
Let Faucets Drip to Prevent Frozen Pipes:
Let faucets leak a little bit at a time, especially the ones on outside walls. This keeps the pipes from freezing and helps release pressure inside of them.
Maintain Adequate Heating:
Remember to keep your home heated to a consistent temperature, especially when you’re away. It’s recommended to set your thermostat to at least 55°F (12°C).
Add Insulation:
To help keep your home warmer and safeguard your pipes, insulate your walls, basement, and attic.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze:
Turn Off the Water Supply:
Remember, shut off the main water supply to prevent any further water from flowing into the frozen pipes.
Open Faucets:
By opening the affected faucet, this allows the water to flow when the pipe thaws. This will also help to relieve pressure and may prevent pipe bursts.
Apply Heat to Prevent Frozen Pipes:
Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, heating pad, or a space heater to thaw the frozen section of the pipe. Start from the faucet end and work your way toward the blockage.
Do Not Use Open Flames:
Never use an open flame, such as a propane torch, to thaw pipes. This is a fire hazard and can damage pipes.
Regularly Check for Leaks:
Inspect your home for any signs of leaks or cracks in the plumbing system. Address these issues promptly to prevent water from escaping and freezing.
Call Summers:
If you can’t locate the pipe, if you’re uncomfortable attempting to thaw it yourself, or if the pipe has burst, contact us today for professional assistance. Keep in mind that the best course of action is to prevent frozen pipes. You may save yourself the trouble and expense of having to deal with frozen or burst pipes throughout the winter by doing routine maintenance and preparation.
You may drastically lower the likelihood that your pipes will freeze and sustain possible damage during cold weather by implementing these precautionary measures. Your plumbing system has to be prepared for and maintained on a regular basis to withstand the harsh winter weather!
