When the weather gets colder, pipes are more likely to freeze. This is especially true in places like New Hampshire where hard winters are common. When pipes freeze, they can do a lot of damage, need expensive fixes, or even stop giving your home water. The good news is that you can protect your plumbing system and avoid the problems that come with frozen pipes by taking the right step ahead of time. This blog post will give you specific, useful advice on how to keep your home’s plumbing safe this winter.
Why Are Frozen Pipes a Problem?
Frozen water expands. Your pipes may break or rupture from the pressure this development generates inside them. Thousands of gallons of water flooding your house from even a minor crack might cause major damage and costly repairs. Keeping your plumbing system safe over the winter depends mostly on knowing the hazards and how to avoid them.
Which Pipes Are Most at Risk?
Not all pipes are equally susceptible to freezing. Here are the most vulnerable areas to watch out for:
- Exposed pipes in unheated areas: Pipes in garages, basements, crawl spaces, and attics are more likely to freeze because they are often uninsulated and exposed to cold temperatures.
- Pipes along exterior walls: If there isn’t much insulation, these pipes can easily freeze.
- Outdoor hose bibs and faucets: Any outdoor plumbing fixtures are at high risk if not properly winterized.
7 Essential Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Here are some practical tips to help you prevent frozen pipes this winter:
- Insulate Pipes in Unheated Areas
- Use pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape to wrap pipes in unheated areas like attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Insulating these pipes will help retain warmth and prevent them from freezing. Make sure to seal any gaps where cold air might seep in around pipes, especially near the walls, doors, and windows.
- Seal Cracks and Openings
- Check for cracks or openings around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home. Use caulk or spray foam insulation to seal these gaps and keep the cold air out. Even a small draft can be enough to cause your pipes to freeze, so be thorough in your inspection.
- Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
- Before winter hits, make sure to disconnect any garden hoses from outdoor faucets. Drain the hoses and store them indoors. Leaving hoses connected can trap water in the line, which can freeze and cause the pipes leading to your home to burst.
- Install Frost-Free Spigots
- Consider replacing your traditional outdoor faucets with frost-free spigots. These are designed to shut off water closer to the home’s interior, reducing the risk of freezing. They can be a simple and effective way to prevent damage to your exterior plumbing.
- Keep a Consistent Temperature Indoors
- During especially cold weather, it’s a good idea to keep your home’s thermostat set at a consistent temperature, day and night. If you plan to be away from home for an extended period, make sure the temperature doesn’t drop below 55°F (13°C). This will help ensure that water inside your pipes stays warm enough to prevent freezing.
- Allow Faucets to Drip During Extreme Cold
- On particularly cold nights, letting a faucet (especially one connected to an exposed pipe) drip slightly can prevent freezing. This small flow of water relieves pressure in the system, which can prevent a rupture if a pipe does start to freeze.
- Shut Off and Drain Water When Away
- If you’re planning to leave your home for an extended period during the winter, consider shutting off the main water supply and draining the system. This way, even if the temperature drops, there won’t be any water in the pipes to freeze and cause damage.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
Even with all these precautions, sometimes pipes can still freeze. Here are some steps to take if you find yourself in this situation:
- Locate the Frozen Pipe: Check areas where pipes are most exposed to cold. You may notice frost on the pipe or hear a lack of water flow from a faucet.
- Turn Off the Water Supply: If you suspect a pipe has frozen, turn off the main water supply to prevent any water from flooding your home if the pipe bursts.
- Thaw the Pipe Safely: Apply gentle heat to the frozen section of the pipe. You can use a hairdryer, heating pad, or even towels soaked in warm water. Never use an open flame to thaw a pipe, as this can damage the pipe and cause a fire hazard.
- Call a Professional Plumber: If you can’t locate the frozen pipe or it’s in an inaccessible area, it’s best to call a professional plumber. They have the tools and expertise to safely address the issue and repair any damage.
The Benefits of Winterizing Your Plumbing
Taking the time to properly winterize your plumbing can save you money, time, and stress. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth the effort:
- Cost Savings: Preventing pipe bursts can save you from costly repairs and water damage.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your plumbing system is protected allows you to relax, even during extreme winter weather.
- Energy Efficiency: Insulated pipes are more efficient, reducing energy loss and keeping your water heater from overworking.
Although winter can present difficulties for homes, with proper preparation you can guard your plumbing system against frozen pipe hazards.
These easy ideas will help you prevent expensive repairs and maintain flawless water flow all winter long. See a professional plumbing company if you require help winterizing your plumbing or if you run across any problems. Being preventative is always preferable than handling the fallout from a frozen or busted pipe.
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