Preparing pipes for season change could save you thousands of dollars in repair costs by reducing the chance they freeze. If your pipes freeze, not only will you be left without running water, there is also a chance that your pipes can crack or rupture, potentially causing severe water damage to your home.
Beating Old Man Winter to the Punch
It is much easier preparing pipes for season change before the onslaught of winter. As temperatures drop, the ground can freeze and the weather can be unkind. The accumulation of snow can also conceal exposed pipes making them difficult to locate and insulate.
- Exterior Pipes – Exposed pipes and hose bibs are extremely susceptible to cold weather. Foam rubber, fiberglass insulation and protective Styrofoam bib covers are suitable for insulating materials.
- Entry Points – Repair any holes or cracks on exterior walls to eliminate cold air from penetrating the interior walls where pipes are present. Pay close attention to cable, satellite and other wires entering you home making sure the area around them are sealed correctly.
- Interior Pipes – Treat interior pipes in non-heated areas of your home the same as exterior pipes. Temperatures can drop below freezing inside of your home’s basement, garage or any area that is void of heat.
- Tips — Leaving the water running — a slow drip — during freezing temperatures keeps it circulating in the pipes. Running water is harder to freeze and it alleviates the building pressure in the pipes. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets where plumbing is present to further expose them to heated air.
When Old Man Winter Beats you to the Punch
So you dropped the ball and failed to prepare your pipes for winter. You realized your pipes are frozen and are left in a panic wondering what to do. The following tips can help you to head off any damage until the plumber arrives.
- Turn Off the Water — If your pipes have frozen, the first thing you should do is turn off the water at the main water shut-off valve.It is a good idea to locate and ascertain any tools needed to shut off the main water valve in the event of an emergency beforehand.
- Open the Faucets — Opening the faucets will allow an exit point for the thawing water to drain, thus speeding up the process.
- After the Thaw — After the pipes have thawed out and you are ready to restore water to the home, turn on the main valve slowing — about half way — and check your home for any leaks. The frozen water inside the pipes could have cracked or ruptured them.
These are just a few, simple tips for preparing pipes for season change. If you need help preparing your pipes or have suffered damage during a freeze, call a professional plumber to inspect the plumbing system. It could save you thousands of dollars in water damage repairs.
For answers to your questions, contact the Pink Plumber today.
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Image photographer: State Farm
