When the weather starts to get cold outside, it’s time to start thinking about the systems in your home. One of the most important is your plumbing system. There are various things you’ll want to do to ensure that your plumbing system avoids freezing pipes this upcoming winter season.
Shut Off Water to Outdoor Fixtures
Probably one of the most important things you can do to prevent frozen pipes this winter season is to shut off water to your outdoor plumbing fixtures. These include things like your house bib, outdoor kitchen, and so forth. Be sure to drain all the lines so that no water is inside the lines around the exterior of your home.
Install Insulation
Piping insulation is a great tactic to help better control the temperature of the water running through your lines. Aim to add insulation sleeves to all areas of exposed piping. These sleeves are fairly affordable and super easy to install. Furthermore, they can help to retain heat in your hot water lines so you don’t have to turn up the thermostat on your hot water heater during the winter. A little insulation goes a long way toward avoiding the need for a costly and inconvenient pipe repair.
Keep Indoor Temperatures Adequate
It’s pretty common for homeowners to turn down the temperature on their thermostats at times when they’re away from home for work or even on vacation. Avoid the urge to completely shut off your heating system as you could allow the temperature in your home to get too cold and cause freezing to happen. Aim for a minimum temperature setting of 50 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re away.
Open Up Cabinets
During particularly cold spells, your home can allow cold air to seep in through air leaks. Areas of your home that are shut off from the natural air that circulates throughout your home can get too cold. It’s best to open up these areas to prevent freezing. Some common areas include sink vanities, kitchen cabinets, and so forth.
Seal Up Air Leaks
Air leaks can create a real problem during the wintertime. They allow cold air to seep into your home and make it harder for your heating system to keep up with your heating demands. Some areas of your home can be particularly vulnerable to these air leaks, like your basement and garage. Before the winter hits, look for areas of air leaks around your home’s foundation and exterior walls. Using foam insulation, weatherstripping, and caulking can be ideal for sealing up these unwanted air leaks.
Consider Heat Cables
If you have any piping that regularly experiences freezing during the winter, it’s best to think about installing heat cables in those areas. These cables get attached directly to the piping and monitor its temperature. When the water temperature nears freezing, the heating cables will turn on to warm up the line to prevent freezing.
Relocate Badly Placed Piping
Unfortunately, DIY piping in older homes can lead to some badly placed pipes. If any of your water supply pipes are in the exterior walls of your home, it’s a good idea to have them rerouted. These pipes are going to be highly susceptible to freezing and can create a lot of damage when they burst.
Beef Up Your Household Insulation
Another tip for the long-term prevention of frozen pipes is to invest in quality insulation for your home. All areas will have a standard R-value mentioned in their building codes. Opt for meeting or even exceeding that R-valve with your home’s insulation. Be sure to examine your insulation every year before winter and replace any sections that are missing or sinking down.
Leave a Faucet Dripping
If your heat goes out this winter season, it’s important to respond quickly with your piping to ensure that it doesn’t freeze up on you. Opt for cracking open each faucet to allow for a steady drip. This will keep water moving throughout your piping, which can go a long way in helping to prevent the water from being able to freeze in place. This method for avoiding frozen pipes is only recommended when you don’t have other available options because it will run up your water bill.
Expert Plumbing Service
Efficiency Plumbing offers expert plumbing service to the Hanover, MA area. We can also help with all your heating, air conditioning, zone system, ductwork, thermostat, ductless mini-split, and indoor air quality needs. Schedule an appointment today by calling our friendly office staff.
