Winter is quickly approaching, and with winter comes freezing temperatures and ice. As homeowners, we need to take into consideration all the problems that accompany colder temperatures before they arrive. One major problem you can unexpectedly run into is your pipes freezing and potentially bursting. This is an expensive issue that can easily be prevented. Here are some great ways to prevent your pipes from freezing..
1. Insulate your pipes
If your pipes are not in a warm area (cold basement, exterior wall or garage) then you should get them insulated. This is an easy and inexpensive thing to do. You can buy pipe insulation at any hardware store and place it over your pipes that are at risk for freezing.
2. Keep your house warm
Most people probably keep the temperature higher than 55*F in the winter while they are home, however this temperature should be maintained even when you are not going to be home. Keeping your house warm keeps your pipes warm. Be sure that your furnace is properly maintained before heading into the cold winter months.
3. Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night
Turning the heat off at night to save on your gas bill can be very damaging in the winter, this could cause the house to get just cold enough for the pipes to freeze. It is best to keep the thermostat at the same temperature day or night.
4. Keep the garage door closed
This is especially important if you have any pipes or water utilities in the garage. Let the water drip from the faucet. In one or two faucets around your home, let the water drip. Doing so keeps the water moving in the pipes and prevents it from sitting still long enough to freeze.
5. Keep the cupboard under your sinks open
Keeping these cupboards open at night will allow the heat to surround the pipes that are in these cupboards, which can help prevent those pipes from freezing.
6. Keep interior doors open
This means closet, bathroom, utility room, and/or mudroom doors. This allows the rooms to stay warm and at similar temperatures as the rest of the house.
If you follow these simple tips it can help protect your water pipes from freezing during the winter. However, accidents can still happen. Here are a couple of warning signs to look out for in case of a ruptured pipe:
- Turning on the faucet and either getting a slow trickle of water or no water at all.
- The water meter shows that water is running even when all faucets are turned off.
If you notice these signs and you are home, turn off your water valve and give Modern PHE a call.
