Frozen pipes can become a very expensive endeavor, a lesson many unfortunate homeowners have learned the hard way. As water freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the pipes that it is contained in, which can lead to splitting and bursting. Apart from the expense associated with replacing your plumbing, the water that escapes causes significant (and costly) damage to your home.
While sometimes these instances are unavoidable, there are a number of ways to reduce the chance of a piping fiasco occurring in your home. Preparedness is the name of the game, and taking preventative action may save you a lot of money in the long run. Here are some tips on how to prevent frozen pipes in your home.
Before the Cold Weather Sets In
The pipes that are most susceptible to freezing are those that are most frequently exposed to severe cold. These include pipes in cold basements and crawlspaces, attics and garages, kitchen cabinets, and those that are located close to exterior walls. Prior to the onset of cold weather, you can protect these from freezing in the following ways:
- Be sure to insulate pipes that are subject to extreme cold, whether hot or cold water pipes
- Consider using products that are designed specifically to keep pipes from freezing, such as heat tapes, heat cables and pipe sleeves
- Drain water from supply lines such as water sprinkler systems and swimming pool lines
- Close indoor valves that supply outdoor hoses, and keep outdoor valves open so water remaining in the pipe can drain
During the Cold Weather
In the colder months, avoiding frozen pipes is a matter of taking certain preventative actions, which despite their simplicity are extremely effective.
- Open cabinet doors within the house to allow heat to reach the un-insulated pipes located under sinks and appliances that are near exterior walls
- If you go on an extended trip, do not lower the house temperature too much. While it may save on the heating bill, it exposes pipes to severe cold and increases the chance that they will freeze
- Keep garage doors closed, particularly if there are supply lines located in the garage
- Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature during both day and night
The Highest Level of Protection: A Marco Plumbing
Sometimes – despite taking the above preemptive measures – frozen pipes and their unfortunate consequences do happen. However, getting a professional to safeguard your house can significantly decrease the chances of running into a frozen pipe fiasco. At A Marco Plumbing, we can help you:
- Repair frozen pipes in your home
- Relocate exposed pipes and provide increased protection
- Better insulate your pipes to decrease the chances of freezing and bursting
For more information on how to prevent frozen pipes with A Marco Plumbing, contact us today!