Winter temperatures can be harsh on plumbing, and frozen pipes are a common challenge homeowners face as temperatures drop. When water in pipes freezes, it can expand and create pressure, sometimes leading to costly damage if the pipes burst. Knowing how to prevent frozen pipes and deal with them if they freeze can save you a lot of stress, time, and money. This guide will share our experiences and outline practical steps to prevent your pipes from freezing during the winter.
Insulate Pipes
Insulating your pipes is a critical first step in preventing freezing. Pipes in basements, attics, and crawl spaces that aren’t warm or well-sealed are the most likely to freeze. To begin, wrap the lines in foam pipe insulation bands or heat tape made just for plumbing. The sleeves are easy to put on because they fit snugly around the pipe and protect it from cold air. On the other hand, heat tape is best for lines in harsher environments.
Don’t overlook the exterior walls in your home, either, especially if your pipes run alongside them. Older homes may have less insulation within the walls, so adding more insulation or upgrading to newer, higher-rated insulation can be beneficial. You can insulate the pipes, protecting them from cold temperatures that could cause them to burst.
Seal Any and All Cracks
Small gaps around doors, windows, and areas where pipes enter or exit the home can expose your plumbing to cold outdoor air. Scrutinize the exterior of your home for these gaps, as they can allow a draft to chill pipes quickly. Use weatherproof caulk or foam sealant to close gaps around windows, doors, and pipe entry points, focusing on basements and crawl spaces where pipes are more vulnerable. Applying weatherstripping around doors and windows will reduce drafts and help warm your home.
In addition, don’t overlook vents or exhaust fans. In colder climates, air leaks from these areas can reduce indoor temperature, especially in unfinished rooms. Inspect these spaces for leaks and seal them as needed. Properly covering your crawl space or basement windows with insulation film or plastic can prevent heat loss and keep cold air from reaching pipes in these rooms.
Consitent Indoor Temperature Matters
Another key to preventing frozen pipes is maintaining a steady indoor temperature. Set your thermostat to a minimum of 55°F, even when you’re not home. A constant temperature helps to ensure that water in pipes doesn’t cool to the freezing point. Homeowners who turn down the thermostat at night to save energy should consider keeping the temperature stable during extreme cold spells. The slight increase in heating costs can prevent the more significant expense and hassle of dealing with frozen pipes.
For homes with zoned heating, make sure each zone is heated adequately. Pay close attention to areas where pipes are, as lower temperatures in these zones could increase the risk of freezing. When the temperature outside drops quickly, open closet doors in the kitchen and bathroom to let warm air flow through the pipes.
Let Faucets Drip Sometimes
Letting your taps drip a little can help release pressure in the lines and keep them from freezing. When water inside a pipe freezes, it grows, which can cause the pipe to break.
Let faucets drip in sections of the house exposed to outside walls is essential. Cold air from the outside can seep in, chilling pipes and causing them to freeze. Dripping water releases pressure within the pipes and maintains movement, which is essential to avoid freezing.
Drain Outdoor Hoses and Faucets
Outdoor hoses and faucets are particularly susceptible to freezing and can contribute to burst pipes if improperly managed. Disconnect all hoses from outdoor spigots, drain them completely, and store them indoors for the winter. Leaving hoses attached can trap water in the faucet and the connected pipe, making them more likely to freeze and burst.
After removing the hoses, turn off any water supply valves leading to outdoor faucets. Then, drain the remaining water from the pipes by opening each faucet until no more water flows out. Cover outdoor spigots with insulated covers to prevent residual water from freezing. These extra steps will safeguard your outdoor plumbing from winter’s harshest temperatures.
Install Frost-Proof Outdoor Faucets
For added protection against frozen pipes, consider upgrading to frost-proof outdoor faucets. Unlike standard faucets, frost-proof models are designed with a longer valve stem, keeping the water shut-off point inside your home, where temperatures are warmer. This design helps prevent water from remaining in the exterior portion of the faucet and reduces the risk of freezing.
Installing frost-proof faucets is especially helpful if you frequently use outdoor water sources or live in an area prone to harsh winters. To install a frost-proof faucet, shut off the water supply and remove the old faucet. Frost-proof models are generally easy to install with essential tools, but a professional plumber can assist and ensure a proper fit if unsure.
In addition to frost-proof faucets, consider using insulated faucet covers in winter. These covers create an extra barrier against the cold, reducing the risk of freezing. By installing frost-proof faucets and adding covers as needed, you can effectively winterize your outdoor plumbing and protect it from freezing temperatures, keeping your home’s water system functioning smoothly throughout the season.
If Your Pipes Do Freeze
If your pipes freeze despite precautions, acting quickly and safely is crucial. First, locate the frozen pipe. This is often identifiable as a section of pipe that’s noticeably colder or shows frost buildup. Turn off the main water supply to your home to prevent pressure from building and causing the pipe to burst. It’s also a good idea to open the faucet connected to the frozen pipe to relieve pressure as it thaws.
Sometimes, even with the best precautions, you may encounter frozen pipes or other plumbing issues that require expert attention. Call a plumber if you notice any water pressure problems that may indicate frozen pipes or if you’re concerned about the condition of your plumbing. A professional can inspect pipes, advise on specific insulation techniques, and handle thawing or repairs if pipes freeze.
Additionally, professional plumbers can install more advanced systems to protect against freezing, such as pipe insulation, electric heating cable kits, or specialized freeze-prevention systems. With expert help, you can ensure your home is well-protected against freezing temperatures and avoid the costly repairs associated with burst pipes.
All Klear Can Help Replace You Frozen Pipe
Taking steps to prevent frozen pipes and knowing how to address them if they do freeze can save you from significant hassles and costly repairs during winter. You can protect your plumbing from winter’s worst by insulating your pipes, letting faucets drip, and maintaining steady indoor temperatures. If you face a frozen pipe, acting quickly with the proper techniques can minimize damage and restore flow.
Remember, it’s always wise to seek professional help if you’re unsure or a pipe has burst, as experienced plumbers can ensure safe and effective pipe repairs and replacements. Contact All Klear in Springfield, MO, to help with your frozen pipes. We also offer heating repair, heating maintenance, heating installation, cooling maintenance, cooling installation, indoor air quality, and electrical and plumbing services.
