Protect Your Home This Winter By Preventing Frozen Pipes

As winter approaches and temperatures drop, the risk of frozen pipes becomes a significant concern for homeowners. Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs and water damage, making prevention essential.

Safeguard your home against the cold with practical tips to prevent frozen pipes. Protect your plumbing system this winter with these tips:

Insulate Your Pipes

Proper insulation is key to preventing pipes from freezing. Focus on pipes located in unheated areas such as basements, attics, crawl spaces and garages. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to cover exposed pipes, providing an extra layer of protection against the cold.

Keep Your Home Warm

Maintain a consistent temperature inside your home, even when you’re away. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F to ensure that your pipes remain warm enough to prevent freezing. Consider opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

Seal Leaks and Drafts

Inspect your home for any leaks or drafts that could let in cold air, particularly around windows, doors and foundations. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal these areas, keeping the cold out and the warmth in.

Let Faucets Drip

During extreme cold, let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving through the pipes. This simple step can help prevent pressure build-up and reduce the risk of pipes freezing and bursting.

Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Before the first freeze, disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses. Shut off and drain outdoor faucets to prevent water from freezing in the pipes. Consider installing frost-free spigots for added protection.

Use Pipe Heating Cables

For pipes that are particularly vulnerable to freezing, consider using electric pipe heating cables. These cables provide direct heat to the pipes, keeping them above freezing temperatures. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe installation and use.

Plan for Emergencies

Despite your best efforts, emergencies can still occur. Know where your main water shut-off valve is located so you can quickly turn off the water if a pipe bursts.

If you need help insulating your pipes or if your pipes freeze and burst, call Plumbers 911 for fast, professional assistance. Our network of local, affiliated plumbing contractors are licensed, bonded and insured. They employ highly qualified plumbers who receive over 10,000 hours of training and undergo rigorous background checks.