How to Prevent Frozen Pipes During Winter
A cup of steaming hot cocoa, a warm blanket, and a crackling fire are the only things many of us need for comfort when temperatures plummet. However, if you want true peace of mind, it’s important to ensure your property is ready for freezing temperatures. Winter-proofing your plumbing should be top on your list of priorities to avoid burst pipes and the resulting property damage. A burst pipe can result in thousands of dollars worth of property damage. If you want to avoid this and truly enjoy the comfort of your cozy fireplace, you should winter-proof your plumbing. Below, we explore how to keep pipes from freezing and what to do when you’re faced with frozen pipes.
How to Keep Pipes from Freezing
When water pipes freeze, the water within them turns to ice and expands. This can cause them to burst. The leaking water in turn can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of water damage. Below are some steps you can take to avoid frozen pipes.
Insulate your pipes
Pipes that are exposed to the outside environment should be insulated to prevent freezing. Insulation can be purchased at most local hardware stores. This insulation costs only a few pennies per linear foot but can save you thousands of dollars in property damage.
Insulate basements, attics, and crawl spaces
For long-term protection of your plumbing, it is best to insulate your home. Areas that are often forgotten such as attics and basements, contain services that can freeze. Insulate these spaces to maintain higher temperatures. You will have the bonus benefit of lower energy costs in your home in the long term.
Open bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors
This will allow warm air to circulate within the cabinets and around the plumbing. This is especially important for plumbing that is on the exterior walls. A bonus benefit of doing this is preventing the buildup of moist air in cabinets and thus avoiding mold infestations.
Let water run through the pipes
Keep water moving through the pipes, especially those that are on the exterior of the home. Keeping the water moving will help to prevent freezing.
How to Unfreeze Pipes
Are your pipes frozen? If you’ve turned on your faucet and only had a few drops of water come out, your pipes may be frozen. They may require thawing out. Be careful with unfreezing your pipes as they may already have burst and you may therefore cause your home to flood. Be sure to inspect the pipes for any signs of damage.
Wondering what to do if your pipes freeze? Below are some steps to take if you discover your pipes are frozen.
- Turn on the faucet. This will allow water to flow through the pipes when the area that has frozen is melted.
- Apply heat to the area that is frozen using a hair dryer. Keep heat away from any flammable materials. Continue to apply heat to the pipes until normal water pressure is restored.
- Check the pipes for leaks or cracks. Check to see if pools of water collect around the area that was frozen.
- Contact a plumber to check your pipes and help if you are unable to locate the frozen section or unfreeze it.
Get Help from a Licensed and Experienced Plumber
Frozen pipes can wreak havoc and cause extensive damage to your property. Whether you’re seeking help to prevent pipes from freezing or are already dealing with frozen plumbing, don’t hesitate to contact us at Snofalls Plumbing for help from a licensed plumber. We’ll have our qualified, skilled, and experienced plumber come to your location as soon as possible and help you resolve the issue. Contact us now to get the assistance you need.
