Winter is here, and with it comes the risk of frozen pipes.
If you’re planning on leaving your home for an extended period of time during the winter months, it’s important to take precautions to prevent your pipes from freezing. Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs and even water damage in your home. Follow these tips to avoid a frozen winter and keep your pipes safe while you’re away.
Insulate Your Pipes
One of the best ways to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate them. This can be done with foam pipe insulation, which can be found at most hardware stores. Simply wrap the insulation around your pipes, paying special attention to any exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. This will help keep the pipes warm and prevent them from freezing.
Keep the Heat On
It may be tempting to turn off your heat while you’re away to save on energy costs, but this can lead to frozen pipes. Instead, set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit to keep the temperature in your home above freezing. This will help keep your pipes warm and prevent them from freezing.
Let the Faucet Drip
Another way to prevent frozen pipes is to let your faucets drip while you’re away. This will keep water moving through the pipes, making it less likely for them to freeze. It’s best to let both hot and cold water drip, as both can freeze in cold temperatures. This may increase your water bill slightly, but it’s a small price to pay compared to the cost of repairing frozen pipes.
Ask a Neighbor for Help
If you have a trusted neighbor or friend who lives nearby, ask them to check on your home while you’re away. They can make sure the heat is still on and that there are no signs of frozen pipes. If they notice any issues, they can contact you or a professional for help. It’s always better to catch a problem early on rather than coming home to a disaster.
Consider Pipe Thawing Services
If you’re worried about your pipes freezing while you’re away, consider hiring a professional pipe thawing service. These professionals use specialized equipment to thaw frozen pipes and can also provide advice on how to prevent them from freezing in the future. It’s a small investment that can save you from costly repairs and damage to your home.
Shut Off the Water Supply
If you’re going to be away for an extended period of time, it may be best to shut off the water supply to your home. This will prevent any water from flowing through the pipes and freezing while you’re away. Just be sure to drain any remaining water from your pipes by opening faucets and flushing toilets before shutting off the main water valve.
By following these tips, you can prevent frozen pipes and avoid a costly and inconvenient situation while you’re away. Don’t let a frozen December ruin your holiday plans – take the necessary precautions to protect your pipes and your home. If frozen pipes persist despite your best efforts, contact Steve Huff Plumbing for a prompt and lasting repair.