With the temperatures dropping, it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your home. When preparing for the threats the winter season can present to your home, frozen pipes are among the most damaging and costly problems to consider. To help you take care of your plumbing and protect your home or commercial property, we’ve put together these tips for preventing frozen pipes.
Insulate Pipes
Exposed pipes are the most likely to freeze. Insulating your pipes is one of the best ways to prevent them from freezing during the winter season. When insulating your pipes, pay extra attention to the pipes in the unheated, interior spaces in your home, such as the basement, attic, and crawlspaces.
Open Cabinets
Opening the cabinet doors in your kitchen and bathroom can keep warm air circulating around the plumbing. This allows heat to reach the uninsulated pipes found under the sinks in your kitchen and bathroom.
Let Faucets Drip
When the temperatures outside are extremely cold, you should let one or two faucets in your home run slowly. Letting water flow through your pipes prevents water from freezing when temperatures drop. Pay special attention to the faucets in the coldest areas in your home, such as the kitchen and bathroom, and only let the water flow at a trickle.
Seal Any Cracks and Openings
Walk around your home and look carefully for any cracks, openings, or holes. Pay special attention to any openings around pipes that allow cold air inside. If you find any cracks or holes, use caulk to keep warm air contained around the interior and exterior walls and prevent ice blockage.
Use Heating Tape
Heat tape is a product that will keep your pipes warm during the winter season. For pipes that are easily accessible, you can retain heat by applying electrical heating tape to your pipes. This is especially helpful for pipes located in an exterior or an unheated location, such as your basement, crawlspace, or attic.
Keep Your Thermostat Consistent
Keeping your thermostat at a set point is one of the easiest ways to prevent frozen pipes. Try to keep your thermostat at the same temperature consistently throughout the winter season. Maintaining a steady temperature helps keep your pipes free from ice during the day and night.
If you think your pipes are frozen, it’s important to receive professional attention as soon as possible to minimize damage to your home. The skilled plumbers at JW’s Plumbing can provide you with high-quality service for your frozen pipe repair, no matter where your pipe is located. Whether you need assistance at your home or commercial property, our experienced team will develop a custom solution and help you make an informed decision.
