As the temperatures plummet and Jack Frost begins to make his presence felt, it’s time to put on your homeowner’s hat and pay extra attention to your home’s plumbing. Frozen pipes can be a real pain, causing havoc from minor inconveniences to major plumbing repair nightmares. Don’t let this be the winter that you learn the hard way about frozen pipes. In this article, learn five preventative steps to keep your pipes from freezing and avoid the headache of dealing with an expensive plumbing repair in Brookhaven.
Insulate exposed pipes
The first step to preventing frozen pipes is to insulate them. Exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, or attics are particularly vulnerable to freezing. You can use inexpensive foam pipe insulation sleeves or wrap them with electrical heating tape to keep the pipes warm and toasty.
Seal off any drafts
If there are any drafty areas in your home, especially near exposed pipes, seal them off. Drafts can cause a temperature drop, leading to frozen pipes. Use caulk or weather-stripping to close gaps around windows, doors, and vents.
Let the water drip
If you’re experiencing extremely cold temperatures, let your faucets drip a little. This will relieve pressure in the pipes and help prevent them from freezing. Don’t worry; it won’t significantly increase your water bill!
Open cabinet doors
If you have pipes in cabinets under your sinks, open the cabinet doors to let warm air circulate them. This will help keep the pipes from freezing and prevent potential damage to your cabinets.
Keep the heat on
One of the most important steps in preventing frozen pipes is to ensure your home is properly heated. Set your thermostat to a consistent temperature, even when you’re away, to prevent pipes from freezing. If you’re going on vacation during the winter months, make sure your heat is set to no lower than 55 degrees.
The winter season may bring festive cheer, but it’s also a time for vigilance regarding your home’s plumbing. Taking these preventative steps will ensure that you can enjoy the winter wonderland outside without any worries inside your home. Don’t hesitate to call a professional if you encounter any plumbing issues. It’s always better to address them early rather than risk bigger problems and repairs. Get in touch with the pros now!
