How To Prevent Frozen Pipes

6/24/2024 (Permalink)

Keep Your Pipes From Freezing This Winter With These Tips from SERVPRO®!

1. Allow the Faucet to Drip: It's not the actual freezing that causes the loss most times, it's the thawing. When pipes freeze, the pressure created by the blockage and faucet causes the pipe to burst. Allowing the faucet to be open and drip will relieve pressure in the system. If the faucet has both hot and cold water pipes, turn both handles slightly so that each pipe is open. If it is a single-handle faucet, turn it to warm.
2. Keep the Heat On: Always keep the heat on in your home to keep your pipes warm and prevent the water from freezing. If you leave for a long period of time, keep your home between 55-60 degrees. 
3. Apply Heating Tape: There are two types of heating tape for water pipes. One turns on and off by itself when it senses that heat is needed. The other type requires a plug when heat is needed. Heating tape acts as an electrical blanket for pipes during cold spells. These can be very useful when you do not want to think about keeping your faucets dripping. They are also useful in homes that are unoccupied such as second homes. However, much like space heaters, these products can be dangerous so you must use safety precautions.
4. Seal Up Cracks and Holes: Seal the gaps and holes that are letting cold air where pipes run through walls or floors. You can use spray foam insulation or caulk to fill the gaps. If possible, it is best to seal the holes on both the interior and exterior side of wall or floor.
5. Add Extra Insulation: Pipes that are located in attics or basements that may not be insulated will likely require extra insulation to keep them warm. Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. 
6. Close garage doors - Make sure garage doors stay closed if pipes run through the garage.

7. Open cabinet doors - Opening kitchen and bathroom cabinets allows warm air to reach the plumbing and will help stop your pipes from freezing.

Ways to help avoid frozen pipes while on vacation

Always be sure to winterize your home thoroughly. Before you leave, take measures to protect your home so you can enjoy the time away, rather than worry about pipes and security. A few things to remember include:

• Check the Thermostat. Set the thermostat in your house no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius). Also be sure to replace the battery in your thermostat.
• Ask for Help. Ask a friend or neighbor to check your house daily to make sure it's warm enough to prevent freezing.
• Shut Off the Water. Shut off and drain the water system. Be aware that if you have a fire protection sprinkler system in your house, it may be deactivated when you shut off the water.

Give SERVPRO of New Kent, Williamsburg, & Northern Neck a call if you experience any water damage due to frozen or burst pipes. 804-966-1400 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!