Frozen Pipes - Prevention and What To Do If It Happens
Everybody knows that extreme cold weather can freeze your pipes, but there are some best practices that will help improve your odds. Read on for some tips and tricks to follow in order to minimize the chances of this happening to you.
Ways to Prevent Pipes from Freezing:
Disconnect Garden Hoses: disconnect, drain, and store your hoses. Close any shut-off valves that supply outdoor hose bibbs and open the faucet outside to drain the line. Keep it open throughout the winter to allow space for any water that remains in the pipe to expand. Drain water from any sprinkler supply lines following the manufacturer's directions.
Insulate Pipes: Consider insulating any pipes located in unheated areas (attic, basement, crawl spaces, or garage, etc.). In extreme cold, pipes underneath kitchen and bathroom sinks are also vulnerable to freezing. Foam insulation can be applied to provide a buffer against frigid temperatures. In some areas it is appropriate to use an electric heater or heat lamp, just be sure to check your clearance to combustibles, which should be 18 inches.
Seal Air Leaks: Check your home for any cracks or openings that could let in cold air, such as the weatherstripping on doors and windows. Seal any penetrations at the home exterior, such as where the lines from your air conditioning compressor enter your home. Keep your garage door closed to prevent unnecessary cold air from entering.
Open Doors and Cabinets: Leave interior doors open so that warm air can freely circulate through the home. Open any cabinets that are below sinks.
Drip Faucets: During extreme cold, start a drip of water from all faucets located at exterior walls, or all of them, if your pipes are exposed. Even a small trickle of water can prevent ice from forming inside your pipes. Leaving a few faucets running slightly will relieve pressure inside the pipes and help prevent a rupture in the event that the water inside freezes.
Keep a consistent temperature: maintaining a consistent temperature in your home throughout the day and night can help prevent water from freezing in your pipes. During average outdoor temperatures, turning your thermostat down at night or when you're not at home can help you save on heating costs, however, the higher cost during extreme cold is well worth preventing even more costly damage. If you'll be away from home during cold weather, ensure your thermostat is set to at least 55°F.
What if your pipes freeze?
If you suspect you have a frozen pipe, start by turning on the faucet. If only a drip or trickle of water flows out, you likely have an ice blockage. Next, carefully inspect the exposed pipe for any cracks or breaks. If any pipes have burst, turn off the main water supply for the house and immediately call a plumber for assistance. Attempting to thaw a pipe that has already burst can cause water to flow out and flood your home.
If the pipe is still intact, turn on the faucet to allow water to flow through as the ice melts. Gently apply heat to the frozen section of pipe, using a heating pad, hairdryer, space heater, or warm, damp towels. Never use an open flame to heat a frozen pipe, as this poses a fire hazard and can damage the pipe. If you are unable to access or safely thaw the frozen pipe, call a licensed plumber right away.
