Safeguard Your Pipes in Freezing Weather
Chelsea O'Donnell
As chilly temperatures settle in for the week, it's crucial to ensure the well-being of your pipes. Dealing with a burst water pipe during winter is not only a common inconvenience but also an expensive hassle. Here's a guide to help you minimize the risk of such issues.
Protect Outdoor Water Sources
If you have outdoor water sources like a pool or sprinklers, take preventive measures. Drain them to avoid standing water freezing and expanding when temperatures drop. Anything in an unheated area is vulnerable.
Secure Outdoor Hoses
Remove and drain all outdoor hoses, storing them away for the season. Close the valves to prevent seepage and ensure they are in good condition for future use.
Insulate Your Attic
Install an insulated box above your attic hatchway to retain heat in your house. An underinsulated attic is a potential risk, being the coldest part of the house.
Insulate Water Supply Lines
Identify water supply lines in your home and insulate both hot and cold water pipes. Inexpensive options like pipe sleeves and heat tape can enhance heat retention and prevent freezing.
Seal Unheated Areas
Keep unheated areas such as garages closed to prevent freezing. Garages often have water lines that can easily freeze when temperatures plummet.
Adjust Thermostat When Away
If you plan to be away and want to save energy costs, don't set the thermostat lower than 55 degrees. This prevents freezing issues while keeping energy usage efficient.
If a pipe is already frozen, consider these steps:
Leave faucets slightly open to encourage water flow and melt partially frozen pipes.
Use a hair dryer, space heater, or heating pad to circulate water in the frozen section.
Check all water sources if one pipe is frozen, as others could be affected.
If unsure, call a plumber to prevent serious and expensive damage.
Shut off the main water valve while keeping faucets open.
A burst pipe can lead to serious flooding and long-term problems like mold and mildew, affecting your family's health. Don't wait to protect your home—act now, especially during the colder winter months.
Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. For remodeling needs, contact O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Submit your questions to Bob at info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line "Ask the Pro." All questions may be considered for publication, and advice is for guidance only.