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Protect Your Pipes from Freezing: A Comprehensive Guide

Frozen pipes can be disruptive, frustrating, and expensive. When water in your pipes freezes, it expands, putting extreme pressure on your pipes. This pressure can lead to cracks or bursts, resulting in severe water damage and flooding. Exterior faucets and pipes in exterior walls, basements, attics, and crawl spaces are particularly vulnerable. Damage often occurs when the ice thaws, allowing water to soak your walls, floors, and ceilings. Follow these tips to prevent burst pipes and avoid costly repairs.

1. Drain Outside Faucets

Outdoor spigots are highly susceptible to freezing temperatures. To protect them:

  • Locate the shut-off valve inside your home, usually in the basement, utility room, or crawl space.
  • Close the valve to stop water flow to the spigot.
  • Open the spigot to drain any remaining water and leave it open to allow room for expansion. Even small amounts of water left in outdoor pipes can freeze and cause blockages or bursts.

2. Install Frost-Proof Faucets

Replace standard faucets with frost-proof ones, which feature a longer stem extending into your home’s heated area to prevent freezing near the valve seat. For new installations, opt for frost-proof faucets made with PEX piping for added protection. While more expensive, they provide invaluable peace of mind.

3. Store the Garden Hose

Before winter arrives, disconnect and drain your garden hoses. Store them in a dry location to prevent damage and prolong their lifespan. Leaving hoses attached can cause water to freeze, expand, and damage both the hose and faucet.

4. Drain Outdoor Water Supplies

Don’t overlook sprinkler systems and swimming pool supply lines:

  • Drain these lines according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Avoid using antifreeze as it’s harmful to the environment, pets, and wildlife.

5. Insulate Your Pipes

Protect pipes in attics, basements, garages, and crawl spaces with foam pipe insulation. Cut the insulation to size with a utility knife and secure it around hot and cold water pipes to maintain a stable temperature. High-quality pipe insulation can save you from costly repairs.

6. Use Heating Cables

Heating cables wrap around pipes and generate heat when temperatures drop. Equipped with a sensor, these cables activate automatically near freezing points. They’re particularly useful for older homes with substandard insulation, providing an extra layer of protection.

7. Open Cabinet Doors

If your kitchen or bathroom sinks are on exterior walls, open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around the pipes during cold spells. This simple step can prevent freezing, especially during extended periods of low temperatures.

8. Don’t Turn the Heater Off

In winter, avoid turning your heater off completely. Lower it when you’re away or sleeping, but keep it on to prevent pipes from freezing. If you’re traveling, set the thermostat to at least 55°F and ask a trusted neighbor or friend to check your home periodically. Shutting off the water supply adds extra protection.

9. Seal Leaks and Gaps

Inspect for cracks or gaps near water supply lines in ceilings, floors, and walls. Use foam insulation or caulk to seal these areas, preventing cold air from reaching your pipes. Even small cracks can significantly lower temperatures around your pipes.

10. Let the Faucets Drip

Allow vulnerable faucets to drip slightly during the coldest periods. The steady water flow reduces the risk of freezing by maintaining energy in the pipes. While this wastes a small amount of water, it’s far less expensive than dealing with water damage and repairs. If you’re away, arrange for someone to monitor your faucets if freezing temperatures are forecasted.

11. Improve Your Insulation

Upgrade or add insulation to your home, especially in areas like basements and attics where pipes are exposed. Enhanced insulation stabilizes temperatures, reducing the risk of frozen pipes and lowering energy costs.

12. Check for Existing Leaks

Inspect your plumbing system for leaks or damage regularly. Address these issues promptly and schedule a professional inspection before winter to ensure your pipes are adequately insulated and ready to withstand cold temperatures.

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