When the weather starts to get colder, freezing pipes begins to become a concern for many homeowners. Luckily, there are a few really easy tricks for preventing your pipes from getting too cold and preventing burst pipes in your home.
OPEN CABINET DOORS ON EXTERIOR SINKS
Cabinet doors are often used to hide unsightly kitchen or bathroom cleaners, and you probably prefer to leave them closed. However, those cabinet doors can prevent warm air from reaching the pipes inside.
To prevent frozen pipes in your kitchen or bathroom, open the cabinet doors under sinks located on outside walls of your home. Leaving the cabinet doors open overnight will prevent pipes from getting too cold and bursting.
To protect your family or pets from the chemicals underneath the sink, shut the bathroom door overnight and use a child safety lock on the door. For kitchens, consider using a baby gate in front of the sink or at the entrance to the kitchen.
ALLOW THE FAUCET TO DRIP
Usually a dripping faucet is cause for concern and means a visit from a plumber. In the winter, a dripping faucet can prevent a visit from the plumber though.
You can help prevent frozen pipes by allowing water to continuously flow through the pipes. Locate a sink on the opposite side of the house and the farthest from your main water line. Leave this sink on a steady lukewarm drip. Avoid using water too hot or too cold as this can create more problems.
Leaving the sink on will force water to flow through the pipes during the coldest parts of the night and prevent freezing. You can also leave the sink on during the day when no one is home.
COVER OUTDOOR PIPES AND SPIGOTS
Few people think of their outdoor hose spigots and pipes during the winter. To avoid problems, remove your hose from outdoor spigots and cover them with an insulated cover. This will protect your exposed spigot, hose, and home from frozen water damage.
INSULATE WATER PIPES
The last trick is to cover your pipes with insulated foam. The insulation will help keep your pipes warm and protect them from the most extreme weather.
You should be particularly concerned with pipes located on or near exterior walls and pipes located in the attic, basement, crawl space, garage, and other non-insulated locations. This job may require that you be outside for long periods of time, so be sure to dress warmly. Also, be sure to dress in safety clothing and wear eye protection.
GET EXPERT HELP
For help insulating your pipes this winter, or for more advice on preventing frozen pipes, call First Class at 302-804-1309 for the best plumbers in Delaware and Maryland.
If you think you’re too late, call First Class right away for emergency plumbing services today. Learn more about our plumbing services.