How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter
During the cold snaps of winter, homeowners often worry about the potential for frozen and burst pipes, which can lead to costly water damage and significant inconvenience. Protecting the home's plumbing system before the cold weather hits is crucial for peace of mind. Taking proactive, preventative measures now can help avoid the stress and expense of dealing with a plumbing disaster later. Fortunately, there are several easy and effective steps homeowners can take to safeguard their pipes and ensure their plumbing runs smoothly all winter long.
Insulate the Pipes
Adding pipe insulation is a cost-effective and crucial step in preventing frozen pipes. Pipes located in unheated areas of the home, such as the attic, crawl space, unfinished basement, or garage, are the most susceptible to freezing when temperatures drop. Applying pipe insulation creates a barrier that helps maintain water temperature and significantly slows heat transfer to the cold ambient air.
This simple preparation can dramatically reduce the risk of a burst pipe, which often leads to extensive water damage and expensive repairs. Be sure to completely cover exposed pipes, paying extra attention to joints and fittings where cold air might penetrate. Investing a small amount of time and money in insulating these vulnerable areas now will provide peace of mind and protection throughout the winter season.
Keep the Heat on and Open Cabinets
Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature is one of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes. When outdoor temperatures plummet, setting the thermostat to at least 60°F, even when everyone is away from home, ensures that warm air circulates throughout the house, including areas near hidden plumbing. This constant warmth acts as a buffer against the cold, helping keep the water in the pipes above freezing. Allowing the home's heating system to run is more beneficial than the potential expense and inconvenience of repairing a burst pipe and the resulting water damage.
To maximize this preventative measure, open cabinet doors under sinks and in areas where water supply lines are located. Plumbing is often housed in cabinets against exterior walls, making them highly vulnerable to cold air infiltration. Opening these doors allows the warmer, circulating air from heated living spaces to reach the pipes, providing them with essential warmth and preventing the localized cold spots that lead to freezing. This simple action, combined with proper home heating, significantly reduces the risk of costly plumbing emergencies during a cold snap.
Winterize Outdoor Faucets
Outdoor plumbing components, particularly outdoor faucets and hose bibs, are susceptible to freezing and should be winterized before the onset of cold weather. The water inside these pipes is often exposed to the exterior temperature and, if left unprepared, can freeze, causing the pipe to burst inside the wall, leading to major leaks and water damage. Proper winterization is a quick process that provides crucial protection for the plumbing system during cold temperatures.
Start by disconnecting hoses from outdoor faucets and draining any existing water from the hoses before storing them. Next, locate the shut-off valve for the outdoor faucet inside the home (usually in the basement or near the main water line) and turn off the water supply to the exterior line. Once the water supply to it is off, open the outdoor faucet to allow any remaining water in the pipes to drain completely. Finally, cover the outdoor faucet with an insulating cover to protect it from cold air, keeping the pipe dry and protected throughout the coldest months.
About The Plumbing Dr
The Plumbing Dr is a residential and commercial plumbing company serving the Falls Church community since 1980. They provide 24/7 emergency support, same-day service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them for plumbing and burst pipe repair services in Falls Church, VA.
