Winter can be a magical time. However, it also poses some challenges that can be very stressful. One of these challenges is frozen pipes. When temperatures drop below freezing, pipes can quickly freeze and cause significant damage to your home. Water expands as it freezes, causing pressure on your pipes and can even cause them to burst, leading to leaks and flooding. The good news is that preventing this from happening is easy if you take a few steps to prepare.
1. Insulate Your Pipes
The first step to keep your pipes from freezing in the winter is to insulate them. You can buy pipe insulation from your local hardware store. You wrap This foam material around your pipes to keep them insulated. You can also cover your indoor pipes in heat tape to keep them warm. Insulating exposed pipes is essential, especially in unheated areas such as basements and attics, is necessary. Outdoor pipes must also be insulated coz they are bound to freeze.
2. Drain Your Outdoor Pipes
If you have outdoor faucets or hoses, turn off the shut-off valve and allow them to drain once you’re done using them. Water left in pipes can freeze and cause them to burst. You can go further and disconnect the hose from the faucet, allowing water to drain completely. Cover outdoor faucets with insulating covers for extra protection to keep them from freezing.
3. Keep Your Home Warm
Another way to protect your pipes from freezing is to keep your home warm. Keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature, especially when you’re not home, and open cabinet doors to let the warm air circulate near pipes, sinks, and other vulnerable areas. If you go on vacation during the winter, keep the heating system running at a low temperature to prevent pipes from freezing.
4. Let a Faucet Drip
Leaving a faucet slightly open and dripping during cold weather helps prevent pipes from freezing. It may seem counterintuitive, but the constant water flow keeps pipes from getting too cold, reducing the risk of freezing. Another option is to install a pressure relief valve that releases water if pressure builds up due to a blockage of ice.
5. Hire a Professional
Finally, if you’re not confident about dealing with frozen or exposed pipes, it’s best to call a professional plumber. They will inspect your pipes and provide a solution that best suits your home’s needs. Higher-quality plumbers can inspect the hidden pipes deeper and analyze past frost heating-up patterns to give you a comprehensive report.
Topeka's Plumbing Services
For homeowners in Topeka, KS, Pat Plumbing, Heating and Air offers comprehensive services to ensure your plumbing is ready for the winter season. Don't wait for the freeze to hit—contact us today at (785) 783-5780 and take the first step towards safeguarding your home against the cold.