When the temperature outside plummets, it’s essential to take precautions to protect your plumbing from unexpected freezes. Plumbing emergencies can be costly and disruptive, so it’s best to take preventative measures whenever possible. If a sudden cold snap catches you off guard, these tips will help minimize the potential for damage.
What to protect:
One area to pay close attention to is any exposed plumbing, such as outdoor faucets and hose bibs. These should be shut off, drained, and covered before cold weather hits. Be sure to disconnect any hoses and store them indoors for the winter to protect the integrity of the hose walls. To ensure that the exposed plumbing does not freeze, we recommend watching weather conditions and adjusting accordingly, especially for overnight changes.
One of the most vulnerable areas inside your home is the plumbing that runs through exterior walls. If possible, insulate these pipes with foam insulation or pipe wrap. Insulation will help keep them from freezing and bursting if the temperature dips too low. This insulation is also helpful throughout the warmer seasons to decrease mildew and mold.
Lastly, your water heater is one of the most susceptible to freezing. Most models have a built-in thermostat that kicks on when the temperature drops, but you can further insulate your tank by wrapping it in an insulation blanket. This will help keep it from working overtime and running up your energy bill as it tries to maintain a consistent temperature.
Taking a few simple precautions can help protect your plumbing from unexpected freezes and costly repairs that often come with them. If you are unsure about your home’s insulation quality, call us, and we would be happy to send a team member out for a home inspection! Give the gift of warmth to your plumbing this holiday season.