How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Your Home

Frozen pipes are something that no property owner wants to deal with. As the water in frozen pipes expands, it can cause pipes to break and floods to occur. In fact, an 1/8″ crack can cause 250 gallons of water to flood in a day. There is no way to ensure this never occurs in your home, but there are things you can do to prevent this experience. The steps below may be able to prevent frozen pipes and flooding this winter.

#1: Drain outdoor water
Outdoor pipes are obviously more susceptible to freezing. Take some time to drain your sprinkler supply lines, swimming pools, and outdoor hose bibs. It is also wise to drain your hoses and store them in your garage or shed.

#2: Install pipe sleeves or heat tape to exposed pipes
It’s critical to insulate any pipes in your home that are exposed. Use pipe sleeves or heat tape to provide extra protection from chilly temperatures.

#3: Monitor your thermostat
Winter is not the right time to save money on your utility bill by turning off your thermostat. If you ever go on vacation, make sure it is not set to anything lower than 55 degrees.

#4: Consider adding insulation
Check your basement, attic, and crawl spaces to see if they are lacking insulation. This purchase won’t only lower the possibility of broken or frozen pipes, it will also help lessen the blow of utility bill costs.

#5: Be prepared
If you notice a slow trickle when you open a faucet, you may have a frozen pipe. With the faucet open, apply heat to the pipe with a hair dryer or electric heating pad. (Do not use an open flame device.) Maintain heat until water pressure returns.

If you do have a broken pipe in your home or business property this winter, contact Paul Davis as soon as possible. Our water restoration services are able to provide assistance and get you back on your feet soon.