Winter can be tough on your home’s plumbing. When temperatures drop, frozen pipes become a major concern for homeowners. If left unchecked, they can burst, leading to expensive water damage and repairs. Prevent frozen pipes by reading on and calling Action Plumbing!
The good news is that with proper preparation, you can prevent frozen pipes and keep your plumbing system running smoothly all winter long. In this guide, we’ll share expert winter plumbing tips, including the importance of pipe insulation and plumbing maintenance, to help protect your home from freezing temperatures. Learn how to prevent frozen pipes with Action Plumbing.
Why Do Pipes Freeze in the Winter?
When temperatures fall below freezing, any water left in exposed pipes can turn into ice. Since ice expands, it puts pressure on the pipe walls, increasing the risk of cracks or bursts. Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, or exterior walls are most vulnerable. Once a pipe bursts, water can flood your home, causing serious damage that requires immediate plumbing repairs.
Understanding why pipes freeze is the first step to preventing it from happening. By taking a proactive approach, you can save yourself from expensive repair costs and avoid plumbing emergencies. Prevent frozen pipes by following our tips.
Winter Plumbing Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Keep Your Home Warm
One of the easiest ways to prevent frozen pipes is to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Even if you’re away, keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. We know- you probably do that already, but don’t forget to check the temperature at night or before leaving town. This helps ensure that pipes stay warm and don’t freeze overnight.
Leaving cabinet doors open under sinks can also help warm air circulate around pipes, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. If you have a particularly cold area in your home, consider using a space heater to provide extra warmth.
Let Faucets Drip
Allowing a small trickle of water to flow from your faucets can relieve pressure inside the pipes. Moving water is less likely to freeze, reducing the chances of a pipe bursting. Focus on faucets connected to pipes that run along exterior walls or unheated spaces.
If you plan to be away from home for an extended period during the winter, leave multiple faucets dripping to prevent frozen pipes throughout your plumbing system.
Use Pipe Insulation
Proper pipe insulation is one of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes. Insulating exposed pipes in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces, and basements adds an extra layer of protection against cold temperatures.
There are several types of insulation available, including foam pipe sleeves, heat tape, and fiberglass wraps. Installing insulation is a simple and affordable solution that can save you from costly repairs down the road.
Seal Drafts and Air Leaks
Cold air can quickly enter your home through gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and even foundation walls. Sealing these drafts can help maintain a warm indoor environment and reduce the risk of frozen pipes.
Use weather stripping, caulk, or insulation foam to close gaps around windows, doors, and other potential entry points. Pay close attention to areas where pipes enter or exit your home, as these spots can be vulnerable to cold air leaks. Prevent frozen pipes by sealing drafts and air leaks and as a result keep your home nice and cozy all winter long.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Before winter arrives, disconnect all outdoor hoses and shut off their water supply. If left connected, any remaining water in the hose can freeze and expand into the connected pipe, causing it to burst.
Consider installing frost-free hose bibs or covering outdoor faucets with insulated covers to add further protection against freezing temperatures. These small measures can prevent frozen pipes and save you lots of money in the long run.
Schedule Regular Plumbing Maintenance
Routine plumbing maintenance is key to preventing frozen pipes and other winter-related plumbing issues. A licensed plumber can inspect your pipes, identify potential problem areas, and make necessary repairs before temperatures drop.
If your home has a history of frozen pipes, consider upgrading to freeze-resistant pipes or installing a whole-house heating system designed to keep your plumbing safe during the winter months. Contact us at Action Plumbing to learn more.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
Even with the best precautions, frozen pipes can still happen. If you turn on a faucet and only a small trickle of water comes out, you may have a frozen pipe. Here’s what to do next:
- Turn on the Faucet: Keep the affected faucet open to allow water to flow once the pipe begins to thaw.
- Apply Heat: Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or space heater to gently warm the frozen pipe. Avoid using open flames or high-heat devices, as they can damage the pipes.
- Check for Leaks: Once the pipe thaws, inspect it for any cracks or leaks. If you notice any damage, shut off the water supply and contact a plumber immediately.
- Call a Licensed Plumber: If you’re unable to locate or thaw the frozen pipe, or if you suspect a burst, call a licensed plumber near you for emergency assistance.
The Cost of Ignoring Frozen Pipes
Ignoring frozen pipes can lead to serious consequences, including burst pipes, water damage, and mold growth. The average cost of burst pipe repair can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the damage. Additionally, water damage from burst pipes can ruin walls, flooring, and personal belongings, leading to even higher repair costs.
Taking steps to prevent frozen pipes now can save you from a costly and stressful plumbing emergency later.
Trust Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric for Winter Plumbing Needs
At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we specialize in helping homeowners protect their plumbing systems during the winter months. Whether you need pipe insulation, emergency plumbing repairs, or expert winter plumbing tips, our team is here to help.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today to schedule a plumbing maintenance appointment and ensure your home is ready for the cold season. Prevent frozen pipes before they become a problem and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.