Preventing Frozen Pipes: Essential Winter Plumbing Tips
As winter approaches, one of the primary concerns for homeowners is preventing frozen pipes. Frozen pipes can lead to significant damage and costly repairs. At Waldman Plumbing, we’re committed to helping you keep your plumbing safe and functional during the colder months. In this guide we have compiled some crucial tips to prevent your pipes from freezing this winter.
Waldman Plumbing’s 7 Winter Plumbing Tips
1. Keep Your Home Warm
Maintaining a consistent temperature in your home is key. Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are not at home. This constant warmth helps keep the pipes in your walls from freezing.
2. Insulate Your Pipes
Proper insulation is your first line of defense against freezing temperatures. Insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages. Pipe insulation is a cost-effective way to protect your plumbing and can be easily installed.
3. Let Faucets Drip
Allow a trickle of water to run from faucets connected to exposed pipes during extreme cold. The flowing water helps prevent freezing within the pipes.
4. Seal Up Cracks and Openings
Check for any drafts near your pipes, especially where they enter and exit your home. Seal gaps around holes where pipes run through walls or floors with caulking or spray foam insulation.
5. Open Cabinet Doors
Allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing by keeping cabinet doors open under sinks, especially if they are on an exterior wall.
6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses and Shut Off Valves
Before the first freeze, disconnect garden hoses and, if possible, use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets. This prevents ice from forming in these lines.
7. Know How to Thaw Frozen Pipes
If you suspect a pipe has frozen, open the faucet and apply heat to the section of the pipe using an electric heating pad, a hair dryer, or a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials). Do not use open flame devices.
Waldman Plumbing Is Here to Help
Despite your best efforts, pipes can still freeze. If you find yourself facing frozen or burst pipes this winter, Waldman Plumbing is here to assist. Our team of skilled professionals is equipped to handle any plumbing emergency you might encounter. Prepare your home for the winter and avoid the inconvenience of frozen pipes. For more information or assistance with winterizing your plumbing, contact Waldman Plumbing by calling 781.780.3184. We’re dedicated to ensuring your home’s plumbing system remains problem-free all year round.