The cold weather and approaching winter can cause pipes to freeze, resulting in costly water damage and the need for water damage restoration professionals. A burst pipe is not just an inconvenience, it can also lead to extensive damage on your property. This includes structural issues, the growth of mold, and expensive repair costs. You can take several proactive steps to stop your pipes from breaking and freezing in the winter. In this article, we will examine practical tips for protecting your plumbing to avoid the headaches of burst pipes.
- Keep Your Home Warmed: A warm home is the best way to prevent pipes from freezing, particularly where there are pipes. Set the thermostat to at least 65degF (15degC), even when on vacation. The temperature will remain above freezing in your house, which will prevent the pipes from freezing. You should pay special attention to areas with exposed pipes, such as basements, crawl spaces, garages, and attics.
- Insulate Exposed Plumbing: Insulating pipes can help to keep them warm and prevent freezing. Pipe insulation sleeves can protect exposed pipes by protecting them from cold temperatures. Heating tape, foam pipe wrappings, and pipe insulation sleeves are also available. It would help if you focused on pipes located near unheated or inadequately insulated areas like crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls. Adding insulation around your pipes creates a barrier for heat retention and helps prevent them from freezing.
- Seal Drafts and Air Leaks: If you want to avoid freezing pipes due to cold air, seal any gaps or cracks on the outside of your house that might allow it to enter. Air leaks can occur around windows, vents, or electrical outlets. If necessary, seal the air leaks using caulking, weather-stripping, etc. Also, make sure that you seal all openings and gaps around pipes in your home to stop cold air from getting inside. By eliminating air leaks and draughts, you will be able to maintain a warmer environment inside and reduce the possibility of frozen pipes.
- Allow Faucets to Drip: On very cold nights, allowing faucets just a tiny bit to drip will help keep pipes from freezing. Allowing some water to run through your pipes can help prevent them from freezing. Pay special attention to the faucets near exterior walls and in unheated spaces of your home. They are particularly susceptible to freezing. While allowing your faucets to drip may lead to slightly higher water costs, this cost is negligible compared to potential water damage and the need for water damage restoration services.
- Open cabinet Doors: If plumbing is inside cabinets, such as those under sinks and vanities, you can open the doors to allow better airflow. This will prevent the pipes from becoming frozen. By allowing warm, interior air to reach pipes in your home, you can maintain a warmer temperature. In periods of especially cold weather, keep cabinet doors open overnight to maintain adequate airflow.
In Conclusion
Freezing pipes can protect your house from water damage. This will also prevent you from having to call in a professional water damage restoration service. Reduce the risk that your pipes will freeze by maintaining a warm home, insulating exposed pipes, seal leaks of air and drafts. Allow faucets to drip, open cabinet doors, drain outdoor taps, plan for vacancies, and keep your home well-insulated. You can prevent your plumbing from bursting and damage by following these steps.
