3 Easy Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Freezing temperatures can cause serious problems inside your home. When the temperature drops, it can cause the water in your pipes to freeze, possibly resulting in a burst pipe. A burst pipe is a serious plumbing emergency that can cause major flooding and significant water damage, in addition to driving up your water bill.

While, unfortunately, we can’t tell you how to prevent frigid winter weather, we can give you a few tips on how to prevent frozen pipes in your home.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

One of the most important things to note is that pipes in certain parts of your home may be more prone to freezing. Pipes that run through basements and attics that are not heated are at the greatest risk. Pipes running along exterior walls are also more likely to freeze.

Here’s how to prevent your pipes from freezing this winter:

1. Invest in insulation. Insulating your pipes is one of the best ways to keep them from freezing. Foam pipe insulation is affordable, and it’s easy to install. Simply wrap it around your pipes. This type of insulation often features a self-adhesive strip to seal the tube around the pipe. If not, it can be sealed using duct tape. You may also want to add additional insulation to your home, especially in your attic or basement. If your pipes freeze yearly, insufficient insulation is the most probable cause.
2. Take precautions when temperatures plummet. Keep the cabinets below your sinks open, especially if the sink is located on an outside wall. Doing so allows warm air from your home to reach the pipes better, making them less likely to freeze. Leave your faucet dripping. Moving water doesn’t freeze, so letting your faucets drip can prevent your pipes from freezing solid.
3. Avoid frozen pipes while you’re away from home. If you plan on being away for more than a day this winter, make sure your thermostat is set to at least 55 degrees. Turn off your main water supply prior to leaving, and completely empty the system by draining all your faucets and flushing the toilets.

What to Do if You Have a Burst Pipe

A burst pipe is a plumbing emergency. If you have a burst pipe in the Hudson Valley, shut off your main water supply immediately, and call T.Webber Plumbing, Heating, Air and Air Conditioning. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency plumbing repair in the Hudson Valley. We’re also available to help you thaw out frozen pipes that haven’t burst. Call (845) 288-2777.