Winter can be tough on your home's plumbing system, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. Frozen pipes are one of the most common plumbing problems during the winter months. Not only can they cause inconvenience, but they can also result in costly damage to your home. The good news is that with a few preventative measures, you may be able to avoid frozen pipes altogether this cold weather season.

In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of preparing your home’s plumbing for winter and provide tips for preventing your home’s pipes from freezing.

Tips for Preventing Your Home’s Pipes From Freezing This Winter

Anyone who has ever had a pipe in their home freeze knows that if you have the opportunity to prevent it from happening, you do it. That’s because a frozen pipe can be a major inconvenience and result in extensive damage to a home, including:

• Burst Pipes
• Costly Repairs
• Water Damage
• Pipe Leaks
• Mold

Here are some useful tips to help you prevent your home’s pipes from freezing this winter:

• Insulate Your Pipes – One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate them. Insulation helps to keep the heat inside the pipes, preventing them from freezing. You can use foam insulation sleeves or wrap your pipes with heat tape. Make sure to cover all exposed pipes, including those in unheated areas like your garage, basement, and crawl space.
• Keep Your Home Warm – Keeping your home warm is another way to prevent frozen pipes. Make sure your thermostat is set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you're away from home. This will help to maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home, preventing your pipes from freezing.
• Let Your Faucets Drip – When temperatures drop below freezing, let your faucets drip. This will help to relieve pressure in your pipes, reducing the risk of them freezing. It's a simple but effective way to prevent frozen pipes.
• Disconnect Outdoor Hoses – Disconnecting your outdoor hoses is another way to prevent frozen pipes. When you leave your hoses connected, water can freeze inside them, causing the pipes to burst. Make sure to disconnect your hoses and drain any remaining water from them before storing them away for the winter.
• Seal Any Drafts – Finally, seal any drafts in your home. Cold air can seep into your home through cracks and gaps, causing your pipes to freeze. Make sure to seal any gaps around your windows, doors, and pipes with caulk or weatherstripping.

By following these simple tips, you may be able to prevent frozen pipes and avoid costly repairs.

If your home does experience frozen pipes or any other plumbing issues this winter, don't hesitate to contact Pat Plumbing, Heating and Air online or give us a call at (785) 783-5780. Our courteous, uniformed plumbers offer free in-home plumbing assessments.