How to Protect your Pipes from Freezing

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

With the winter season comes the possibility of frozen pipes. This can be a big issue, however, it can also be prevented. When one's pipes freeze it is likely they will burst which can be dangerous and damaging to a home. Here are some signs to look out for and ways to stop your pipes from freezing!

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Pipe freezing can cause devastating, costly damage by bursting or cracking. It is better to just avoid the situation altogether. There are many different things that can be done to help this issue:

-Insulate Pipes: The more insulation one uses, the better protected your pipes are. It is especially important to insulate in your home’s crawl spaces/attics because those are the areas where freezing is the most likely to occur. 

-Seal Cracks: Locate any cracks in your pipes that let cold air inside. It is important to immediately take action and seal them to prevent further damage. You should look for any air leaks that may be happening around wiring or vents to be safe. 

-Secure Outdoor Pipes: Before the cold/winter hits, garden hoses should be disconnected. Valves leading outdoors should also be drained. You can protect them by using facet covers in the winter months.

-Drip Warm Water: When you know that cold weather is coming it is smart to have a slow drip of warm water throughout your faucets to prevent them from freezing. This is especially important overnight when they aren’t being used.

-Adjust Thermostat: Try and keep the thermostat at a constant temperature to help prevent freezing throughout the day and night when there is cold weather. This will help keep the pipes warmer so they have less of a chance of freezing. 

What To Do If Pipes Freeze

Pipes freezing can be a serious danger and action should be taken ASAP! If you turn on a faucet and there is only a drip or no water at all, it’s likely your pipes are frozen. Here are some steps to take if this is happening:

-Check Water Supply Lines: Go through and check the water supply lines and note any areas/spots that seem to be extremely cold. Be sure to notice any line breaks that there may be as well.

-Call a Professional: It is always a smart decision to call a professional when you are unsure of what to do. Protecting your home safely is a priority that a professional can help ensure. Get the help you need to prevent any unwanted damage. 

-Shut off Water: If pipes have already burst or are about to turn off the water using the main water valve in your home. Be sure everyone in the home knows the location of this valve to prevent any costly confusion that could happen in the future.

-Use a Hairdryer: A hairdryer could be an at-home solution for a frozen pipe. You may be able to thaw the ice using the heat from the hairdryer. It is important, however, to check that there is no standing water that could lead to one getting electrocuted. Put your safety first!

Check your pipes this winter season to make sure they don’t freeze! SERVPRO is here to help prevent the damage from happening as well as clean up any that might’ve already happened. We want to help ensure the protection of you and your home. Don’t freeze in the possibility of danger!