Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes
Nothing is more frustrating than dealing with frozen and burst pipes during the winter. If the water in your pipes freezes, it will expand, which could cause cracking and broken water pipes — and a lot of water damage. Before the winter fully sets in, you want to do what you can to prevent frozen pipes and save yourself time and money in repairs.
Add Proper Insulation
In areas of your home that get less heat, such as basements or attics, you want to cover your pipes with insulation. Any water pipes attached to an exterior wall should also be protected from cold temperatures. You can wrap the pipes with foam, rubber, towels, or spray foam.
Run Water
Letting a small trickle of water out of your sink and tub faucets can lower the likelihood of pipes freezing. This keeps the water moving, which makes it harder to freeze. This also releases pressure in the pipes, so the expansion will do less damage if water does freeze.
Keep the Heat Running
Though lowering the thermostat to save on energy costs is brilliant, you do not want to lower it too far. If you set your thermostat below 50 degrees at night, it is more likely that your pipes will freeze. Keep your house warm, especially on very cold nights.
Open Sink Cabinets
Opening your sink cabinets allows warm air to circulate the plumbing under your sinks, which helps keep the pipes warm. This is especially important if your sink pipes are against an exterior wall.
Trust R. Poust, Inc. If You’re Dealing With Burst Pipes This Winter
If you’re worried, have a frozen pipe, or are dealing with the aftermath of a burst water pipe, contact R. Poust, Inc. today. Let our professionals take care of the issue.
