When temperatures drop, your pipes are at risk of freezing or bursting. Action Plumbing, Heating & Air — your premier HVAC company in Salt Lake City — is happy to help with your emergencies, but we would rather help you prevent them.
Here are a few things you can do to protect your plumbing system:
Pipe Insulation
Your most at risk pipes are located in unheated areas of your home. For these ones, we suggest insulation. They protect your system from freezing and save you money from heat loss too!
Pipe insulation typically comes in two forms: pipe-wrap or tubular sleeve. For small lengths, use pipe-wrap to cover the pipe by overlapping it by ½ inch. For longer lengths, use tubular sleeves. These rubber tubes are available up to 6 feet and are quick to install.
Close and Open Doors
Preventing your plumbing from freezing can be as simple as keeping some doors open and other ones closed.
Always keep your garage door closed when you are not using it, especially if there are water supply lines inside.
On particularly cold days, open cabinet doors in your kitchen or bathroom. The heated air in your home will circulate around the plumbing system and prevent freezing. Don’t forget to remove harmful chemicals you may keep under the sink, if you have pets or small children.
Regulate the Temperature
While it may be tempting to drop the temperature of your home when you’re away, it is a bad idea for your plumbing system. Whatever you might have saved on your energy bill won’t feel worth it, when you’re looking at the damages caused by burst pipes.
Remember to keep the temperature in your home above 55 degrees Fahrenheit even if you go on an extended vacation.
Run Water
When the temperature drops, allow cold water to drip from a faucet served from pipes that are exposed. Water running — even a dribble — will keep the system protected.
If all fails and your pipes freeze, call your expert plumbing company at (801) 833-333 to save the day. We can thaw your pipes and repair the damage anytime!