Preventing Freezing Pipes

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Photo by Timo Muller via Upsplash

Having your pipes freeze and burst can cause big problems in your home. Typically your pipes are in danger of freezing when temperatures outside are below 20 degrees for six hours or more.  Water coming into your home is much colder and causes your pipes to contract, and in weaker parts, can cause the pipe to burst.   Here are some expert tips for ways to try to prevent it.  

Keep Water Faucets Running

If it is extremely cold outside, always keep one or two faucets running slowly.  Water moving through the pipes should help prevent freezing

Leave Cabinet Doors Open

If your kitchen sink is on an outside wall, be sure to leave cabinet doors open to allow warmer air into the cabinet.

Disconnect Your Hose 

Be sure to disconnect your hose from the outside faucet.  If you leave your hose connected, water is not able to drain out of your hose bib and will freeze and break the device

Seal Leaks 

Seal leaks that allow cold air into your home where pipes are located.  Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes and seal them up.  With severe weather, even a tiny opening can let in enough cold air to make pipes freeze.  

Check Your Home's Temperature

Prevent temperature from dropping below 32 degrees in any area of your home where water lines are located.