Pipes most vulnerable to freezing are those exposed to severe cold, like hose bibs and swimming pool lines. Those that run against uninsulated exterior walls, such as basements, attics, and garages, are at risk. The threshold for concern isn’t as low as you might think. Pipes freeze when temperatures drop to about 20°F (-6°C), especially if these cold temperatures persist for extended periods.

Preventative measures before winter arrives

Pipe insulation is your first line of defence. The product is cheap, easy to install, and widely available. Focus on pipes in unheated or minimally heated areas of your home. Both foam rubber sleeves and fibreglass insulation work effectively, with foam sleeves being particularly user-friendly for DIY installation. A small crack or opening near a pipe can allow cold air into your home. Especially where pipes lead outside, seal gaps around them using caulk or insulation. Don’t forget areas like dryer vents and electrical wiring access points.

Before the first freeze, disconnect, drain, and store your garden hoses. Leaving hoses connected during winter traps water in the faucets and pipes inside your home, leading to ice formation and potential cracks. For pipes particularly susceptible to freezing, consider applying heat tape or heat cables directly on the pipes. When used according to manufacturers’ instructions, these products can prevent freezing by providing direct warmth to the pipes.

Daily practices during cold weather

  • Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature day and night. While you might be tempted to lower the heat while sleeping, maintaining a consistent temperature reduces the risk of pipes freezing in exterior walls during overnight temperature drops.
  • When temperatures plummet, allow faucets connected to exposed pipes to drip slightly. There is less chance of standing water freezing than moving water. Even a trickle can prevent pressure buildup in the pipe if ice formation begins.
  • Allow warmer room air to circulate the plumbing by opening cabinet doors, especially if sinks are on exterior walls. Just be sure to move harmful cleaners and chemicals out of reach of children and pets.

Service Relief – Plumbing, Heating, AC & Drain Cleaning recommends yearly heating system checks to maintain peak efficiency in colder months. A properly functioning heating system is your best defence against frozen pipes, as it maintains adequate temperatures throughout your home.

Frozen pipes – What to do?

If your faucet only drips when you turn it on, you probably have a frozen pipe. Run cold water to melt the ice if your frozen section is open. Heat the frozen section using an electric heating pad, portable space heater, or towels soaked in hot water. Never use an open flame device like a blowtorch, kerosene, propane heater, or charcoal stove to thaw a pipe. Make sure to apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you cannot locate or thaw the frozen section, or if multiple pipes are affected, contact a licensed plumber immediately.

Additional precautions are necessary if you plan to be away during cold weather. Check the heating system daily and shut off the water system if the property will be vacant for an extended period. Water damage from burst pipes is devastating, requiring extensive repairs to floors, walls, and personal belongings. If not properly remediated, water damage costs can quickly multiply into thousands of dollars. Taking preventative measures against frozen pipes is a small investment compared to the potential repair and restoration costs.

Name       : Service Relief – Plumbing, Heating, AC & Drain Cleaning
Address   : 195 Adams St, Manchester, CT 06042
Website   : https://servicereliefnow.com/
Phone      : (860) 222-7139