How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Winter

Frozen pipes are a common winter plumbing issue that can lead to costly repairs, water damage, and inconvenience for homeowners. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands, increasing pressure and potentially causing pipes to burst (Call a 24 Hour Plumber in Angier, NC). Fortunately, with some preventative measures, you can protect your plumbing system during freezing temperatures. This article outlines practical steps to prevent frozen pipes and avoid unnecessary winter plumbing repairs

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Problem

When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands and exerts pressure on the pipe walls, which can lead to cracks or bursts. The resulting water damage can cost thousands of dollars to repair and may disrupt your daily life - Go here. Pipes at the highest risk of freezing are those located in unheated or poorly insulated areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and exterior walls

Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

• Wrap pipes in unheated areas with foam pipe insulation or heat tape to protect them from freezing temperatures.
• Focus on pipes in basements, crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls.
• For added protection, use insulated sleeves or pipe wraps designed specifically for plumbing.

2. Seal Drafts and Cracks

• Identify and seal cracks or openings around pipes in exterior walls, floors, or foundations where cold air can enter.
• Use caulk or expanding foam to close gaps around utility pipes, preventing drafts from lowering the temperature around plumbing.

3. Keep Indoor Temperature Consistent

• Maintain a consistent indoor temperature of at least 55°F (12°C), even if you’re away from home.
• Avoid turning off the heat entirely during vacations to prevent pipes from freezing in your absence.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

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4. Let Faucets Drip

• Allowing a slow, steady drip of water from faucets connected to at-risk pipes reduces pressure in the system and helps prevent freezing.
• Focus on faucets connected to pipes along exterior walls or in unheated areas.

5. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

• Disconnect and store garden hoses to prevent water from freezing and expanding into connected pipes.
• Shut off water to outdoor spigots and drain any remaining water from the line to avoid bursts.

5 Tips to Protect Your Plumbing System This Winter

1. Install Pipe Heating Cables:
   • Use heat cables or heating tape on exposed pipes to keep them warm during freezing weather.
   • Follow manufacturer instructions and ensure the cables are properly rated for your pipe material.

2. Use a Space Heater in Vulnerable Areas:
   • Place a space heater in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces to maintain a safe temperature for pipes.
   • Always follow safety guidelines when using space heaters to avoid fire hazards.

3. Winterize Outdoor Plumbing:
   • Drain sprinkler systems, shut off exterior water valves, and insulate outdoor faucets to protect them from freezing.

4. Inspect and Maintain Your Home’s Insulation:
   • Add insulation to areas like basements and attics to keep pipes warm.
   • Consider adding pipe sleeves or insulating foam boards for extra protection in exposed areas.

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5. Know Your Main Water Shutoff Valve:
   • Locate your home’s main water shutoff valve and ensure it’s functional.
   • In case of a pipe burst, shutting off the water quickly minimizes damage.

Call Us for Winter Plumbing Services

Preventing frozen pipes is crucial for avoiding costly repairs and water damage during winter. Our professional Angier, NC plumbers can help you winterize your plumbing system, insulate exposed pipes, and identify vulnerabilities in your home - Get the best on-call plumbers in Angier. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or to learn more about our winter plumbing services!