Wouldn’t it put a real damper on your morning if no water came out of your showerhead, and you just stood there shivering in the cold? Well, if you don’t take proper care of your pipes during the winter, that’s exactly what could happen. What’s even worse, if left unchecked, those frozen pipes could burst and leave you with a huge mess.
But not to worry! Here’s how you can prevent frozen pipes and keep your home and plumbing safe.
Open Cabinet Doors: At least the ones with faucets or water lines in them. By doing this, you allow the warm air in your home to circulate around your pipes, keeping them warmer and preventing freezing. This is particularly important in areas where pipes are located in cabinets against exterior walls. Improved airflow can make a significant difference in maintaining a consistent temperature.
Let Faucets Drip: Ordinarily, we discourage dripping faucets due to water conservation concerns. However, in this case, a little drip goes a long way in preventing frozen pipes. Even the slightest flow of water can help alleviate pressure in the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing. This is particularly useful during extremely cold nights when temperatures can plummet.
Insulate Colder Areas: Most homes have pipes running through the basement or attic, and if those areas aren’t properly insulated, the pipes could easily freeze during the winter months. Adding insulation to these areas can serve as a protective barrier, preventing frozen pipes and conserving more warm air inside. This not only safeguards your plumbing but also contributes to lower energy bills.
Keep the Heat On: While it may seem obvious, it’s essential to stress that maintaining a consistently warm environment is critical in preventing frozen pipes. If you’re taking a trip and contemplating turning off the heat while you’re away, it’s advisable not to. Doing so would increase the risk of returning home to find a frozen, burst pipe that has flooded your basement.
Instead, consider programming your thermostat to run every few hours while you’re away. This not only prevents frozen pipes but also ensures you return home to a comfortable and adequately heated living space. Modern programmable thermostats make this task convenient, allowing you to set temperature adjustments according to your schedule.
Winterize Outdoor Plumbing: Outdoor plumbing systems, such as sprinkler systems and outdoor faucets, are particularly vulnerable to cold weather. Since you typically won’t need these until spring, turn off the water supply to these lines and open the outlets to drain all the water. This simple step can safeguard your outdoor plumbing from freezing temperatures, ensuring they remain intact until needed again.
Monitor Your Home’s Temperature: Investing in a smart thermostat with remote monitoring capabilities can provide peace of mind, allowing you to check and adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere. This is especially valuable when you’re away for an extended period. Smart thermostats offer flexibility and control, helping you ensure a comfortable indoor environment and preventing potential freezing issues.
Taking these precautions can go a long way in safeguarding your plumbing system against the hazards of winter. By incorporating these measures into your routine, you not only prevent inconveniences like frozen pipes but also contribute to the longevity and efficiency of your home’s plumbing infrastructure. Remember, a little proactive care now can save you from major headaches and expenses in the future.
Stay ahead of winter worries with Gold Medal! Ensure a cozy and worry-free season by implementing these plumbing tips. Trust Gold Medal for all your plumbing needs – if you find yourself in a plumbing emergency, our team will be happy to assist. Schedule online!