5 Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter
Winter is coming, and with it comes the risk of frozen pipes. When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands, which can lead to cracks, leaks, and potentially thousands of dollars in water damage. The good news is that with a little preparation, you can protect your plumbing system from freezing temperatures.
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Why Pipes Freeze
Pipes freeze when they're exposed to temperatures below 32°F (0°C) for an extended period. This is most common in:
- Pipes in unheated interior spaces like basements, attics, and garages
- Pipes that run against exterior walls with little or no insulation
- Outdoor plumbing fixtures and pipes
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1. Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate them. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install.
How to do it:
- Purchase foam pipe insulation sleeves from your local hardware store
- Cut the insulation to the length of your pipe
- Wrap the insulation around the pipe, ensuring there are no gaps
- Secure with tape if necessary
Focus on pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as the basement, attic, crawl spaces, and garage. Don't forget pipes that run along exterior walls.
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2. Keep Your Home Heated Consistently
Maintaining a consistent temperature in your home can help prevent pipes from freezing.
Tips:
- Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F (13°C), even when you're away from home
- Avoid setting your thermostat lower at night during extremely cold weather
- If you'll be away for an extended period, ask a friend or neighbor to check on your home regularly
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3. Allow Faucets to Drip
When temperatures drop significantly, allowing your faucets to drip slightly can prevent pipes from freezing.
Why it works:
- Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water
- Even a trickle of water can help relieve pressure in the pipes if freezing does occur
Focus on faucets connected to pipes that run along exterior walls or in unheated areas.
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4. Open Cabinet Doors
Opening cabinet doors under sinks allows warm air to circulate around the plumbing.
Best practices:
- Open cabinets under kitchen and bathroom sinks, especially if they're on exterior walls
- Remove any household chemicals that might be hazardous to children or pets
- Consider using a fan to help circulate warm air into these spaces
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5. Seal Leaks and Cracks
Cold air can enter your home through small cracks and openings, potentially freezing nearby pipes.
Areas to check:
- Around electrical wiring
- Around dryer vents
- Around pipes where they enter your home
- In windows and doors
Use caulk or insulation to seal these leaks and keep cold air out.
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What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
Despite your best efforts, pipes can still freeze during extreme cold. If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you likely have a frozen pipe. Here's what to do:
1. Keep the faucet open. As the frozen area begins to melt, water will flow and help melt the ice.
2. Apply heat to the frozen section. Use an electric heating pad, hair dryer, or portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials). Never use an open flame device.
3. Continue applying heat until full water pressure is restored.
4. Check all other faucets. If one pipe freezes, others may have frozen as well.
5. Call a professional plumber if you cannot locate the frozen area, if it's inaccessible, or if you cannot thaw it.
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When to Call a Professional
While many preventative measures can be DIY projects, sometimes you need professional help:
- If you're not comfortable working with your plumbing system
- For adding insulation in difficult-to-reach areas
- If you've experienced frozen pipes before and want a comprehensive solution
- To inspect and upgrade your plumbing system before winter
Our team of licensed plumbers can help you prepare your plumbing system for winter and prevent costly damage from frozen pipes. Contact us today to schedule a winter plumbing inspection.
Stay warm and dry this winter by taking these preventative steps now, before the temperature drops!