Here are some ideas for preventing frozen pipes and what to do if your pipes freeze.
It is essential to protect pipes from freezing in addition to performing regular winter maintenance. A tiny crack can cause hundreds gallons of liquid to leak out, causing structural damage or damage to your furnace. This could also lead to an immediate risk of mold.
Families are affected by frozen water pipes in cold climates and warm climates. When temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, pipes can freeze and burst. This can happen in both homes with plastic and copper pipe systems. You can reduce the chance of your water pipes freezing and causing property damage by following the steps below.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are often caused by sudden temperature drops, inadequate insulation and thermostats that are set too low. Prepare your home in the warmer months to prevent your pipes from freezing.
- Insulate exposed pipes. Exposed pipes are more susceptible than those that are not. Pipe insulation can be helpful even if your climate is one where freezing is rare.
- Try heat tape or heat cables. Heat tape or thermostatically-controlled heat cables may be used to wrap pipes. Use products that are intended for exterior or interior use and approved by independent testing organizations, such as Underwriters Labs Inc. Follow all installation and operating instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Seal air leaks. Check for leaks around dryer vents, electrical wiring and pipes. Seal all leaks using caulk and insulation to keep out the cold.
- Protect outdoor hoses, faucets, and valves. Disconnect garden hoses before winter arrives and, if you can, drain the water out of pipes that lead to faucets outside using an indoor valve. This can help to prevent the pipe from freezing inside your home.
- Allow water to drip. Even a trickle of water can keep your pipes warm. Allow warm water to drip from an exterior wall faucet overnight, when temperatures are low.
- Adjust your thermostat. By keeping the temperature the same day and night, you can prevent frozen pipes. This can also reduce strain on your furnace during cold weather.
- Open the cabinet door. Heat can get into pipes that are not insulated under sinks or appliances near exterior walls.
Avoid Frozen Pipes on Vacation
Take measures before you leave to protect your home. This will allow you to enjoy your time away without worrying about plumbing and security. Some things to keep in mind include:
- Check your thermostat. Set your thermostat to no less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit (or 12 degrees Celsius) in your home. Check and replace your thermostat’s battery if necessary.
- Ask for help. Ask a neighbor or friend to check on your home daily to make sure it is warm enough to avoid freezing.
- Turn off the water. Drain the water system. If you have a sprinkler system installed in your home, the system may deactivate when you turn off the water.
How to Deal With Frozen Pipes
The pipes do not always burst if they are frozen. Keep in mind the following:
- Contact a plumber in case you need one. Turn on the faucets, but nothing will come out.
- Do not use flames to thaw pipes. A torch or any other open flame could create a fire risk.
- A hair dryer may help you thaw out a frozen pipe. Be sure you’re not near water that is standing, or flammable material. Warm the pipe closest to the faucet, then work your way up the pipe.
- Turn off the water. If the leak detection system is already on or if your pipes are burst, shut off the water using the main shutoff in your house. Make sure that all members of your family know where to find the shutoff valve and how to operate it. Keep the faucets on.
Take the right steps to prevent frozen pipes. Learn how to lower your energy consumption in the cold winter months.
This post was written by Joey Denick. Joey is the Owner and Operator of Clog Kings. At Clog Kings, LLC, we pride ourselves on our dedication and efficiency. We know you don’t have time to waste. That’s why we work fast to get your home or commercial building back up and running in no time. If you are looking for plumbers in Clearwater FL then look no further because we got you covered!
