Prevent Freezing Pipes With a Few Simple Steps
While frozen pipes can be a major inconvenience, burst pipes are the real problem. Water is one of the few things that expands when it goes from liquid to solid form, putting strain on the enclosed area of a home’s plumbing.
When pipes burst, this causes many other problems, including water damage, high water bills, and a need for serious plumbing repair. In the following paragraphs, discover steps to protect a home’s plumbing system against freezing and bursting.
Step #1: Insulate Pipes
Insulating pipes is as important as insulating the home. Not every pipe needs to be insulated because walls do some insulating themselves. The key is insulating exposed pipes that are most likely to freeze. Places such as unfinished basements, crawl spaces, and under sinks are prime areas for pipe insulation. It is a simple DIY that’s fast and easy to perform. Pipe insulation looks like pool noodles split like a hot dog bun. Below are some steps to follow should homeowners opt to DIY:
- Measure: Measure the circumference and length of the pipes to purchase the right amount.
- Purchase: Go to the hardware store and buy the insulation.
- Cut: Cut the pipe insulation to the correct length.
- Place: Wrap the pipes with the insulation.
- Secure: Fasten the insulation around the pipes with duct tape or something similar.
Step #2: Keep the Temperature Consistent in the House and Open Cabinet Doors
Even if a household is away from the home, the pipes can still freeze. That is why it is important to keep the heat going even when no one is home. If the weather is particularly cold, opening cabinet doors to allow the heat to circulate will help prevent pipe freezing. Reasons to do all this include:
- Expanding and contracting with the heat and cold can weaken the pipe’s integrity, especially a metal one.
- Both sewer and supply pipes can freeze, so both should be insulated, and the cabinets surrounding them should be left open.
- Pipes can break under the foundation or the ground, but consistent temperatures help spread heat and reduce the chance of this happening.
Step #3: Cover Hose Bibs After Disconnecting the Hose
If one place is a chink in the armor of pipe insulating, it is outdoor faucets. The hose bib is often the location where pipe freezing begins. Disconnecting the hose and using a hose bib cover can prevent many problems.
This simple preparation can save a household from nasty emergency plumbing problems. A cover can be purchased at a local hardware store. It will cost only a few dollars and could save a homeowner a hefty sum if it prevents freezing and burst pipes.
About Airworks Heating & Air
Airworks Heating & Air serves the Raleigh, NC, area with 100% satisfaction guaranteed. With every appointment, their expert staff offers personalized service and honest advice, never starting work without providing a detailed estimate. Call today to enjoy top-rated plumbing services in Raleigh, NC!
