7 Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes

The winter season is here and with it the potential for frozen pipes. Frozen pipes can be a nightmare for homeowners and businesses, resulting in costly repairs and potential water damage. Fortunately, you can take a few simple steps to prevent frozen pipes and avoid the hassle and expense of dealing with the aftermath. Keep reading to learn how you can prevent frozen pipes this winter.

1. Insulate Pipes in Unheated Areas

Insulating your pipes is one of the most effective ways to keep them from freezing. Unheated areas such as basements, attics, and garages can be particularly vulnerable to extremely cold temperatures. It's important to insulate pipes in these areas and any pipes that run through crawlspaces or outside walls.

You can buy insulation sleeves, tape, or foam insulation tubes available at your local hardware store and easily wrap them around the pipes to insulate your pipes efficiently. This will help keep the pipes warm and prevent them from freezing.

2. Seal Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors

Another way to prevent frozen pipes is to seal any air leaks around windows and doors. Cold air can easily enter through these openings and cause the temperature in the area to drop quickly. Sealing gaps or cracks to help keep the temperature inside the house or building consistent.

You can use a weather strip, caulk, or foam insulation to keep your spaces warm and keep cold air out.

3. Keep the Thermostat Set to the Same Temperature Day and Night

Although switching off the thermostat at night may be tempting, it may work against you when it comes to preventing frozen pipes. This is because the air temperature will drop significantly when the thermostat is turned off, which increases the chance that the pipes will freeze.

To avoid this, keep the thermostat set to the same temperature day and night. This will help keep the temperature inside the house or building consistent and reduce the risk of frozen pipes. Additionally, it's a good idea to keep the thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit during cold weather. This will help ensure that your pipes don't freeze.

4. Open Cabinet Doors to Allow Heat to Circulate Around Pipes

If your pipes are located in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms, you can help prevent them from freezing by opening the cabinet doors to allow the heat to circulate around the pipes. This will help allow the heat from the room to circulate around the pipes, keep them warm, and reduce the chances of them freezing.

5. Let Faucets Drip Slightly During Cold Weather

Letting your faucets drip slightly during cold weather can help keep your pipes from freezing. This is because moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water.

6. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses and Store Them Indoors

It's important to disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and store them indoors during cold weather. This will help keep the water in the hoses from freezing and causing the pipes to burst. It's also a good idea to shut off the water supply to any outdoor faucets.

7. Shut Off the Water Supply and Drain the System If You Won't Be Around

If you plan to be away from your home or business for an extended period, it's a good idea to shut off the water supply and drain the system. This will help ensure that any water left in the pipes won't freeze and cause damage.

Preferred Mechanical Services is here to help you with your plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and duct cleaning needs. Our experienced team of professionals is available 24/7 to provide prompt and reliable service. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help keep your pipes safe and warm this winter.