With the temperatures dropping this time of year, we thought it would be a good time to remind everyone how to prevent your pipes from freezing, not to mention keeping them from bursting as a result!

Freezing in pipes creates an enormous amount of pressure that can possibly cause a pipe to burst and lead to damage in your home.

By following a few simple tips, you can prevent freezing pipes from occurring in most circumstances.

One thing to point out is that freezing pipes aren’t limited to just those areas in cold climates. If your pipes are not properly insulated, you could run the risk of frozen pipes when the temperature drops or you have an abnormally cold season.

Heat. Keep your heat on at a consistent temperature and above 50 degrees. The consistent heat provides enough warmth to prevent any water inside the pipes from freezing.

Drip. If you find the temperatures dropping dramatically and you have concerns about the freezing, you can slightly turn your faucet on allowing a slight drip. By doing this, you’ll prevent pressure from building up and keep your pipe from bursting.

Doors. Keep your cabinet doors open to allow the heat to reach the pipes and keep them warmer. It’s also not a bad idea to keep interior doors open to allow the heat to flow through your home.

Seal. Be sure to seal any gaps and cracks around the holes where the pipes run through the walls or floors, especially where that hole is letting in cold air. Use a caulk or spray foam and seal holes on both the interior and exterior side of the wall if at all possible.

Tape.  Use heating tape for short sections of pipe that are exposed to a high risk of freezing and are easily accessible.

Insulate. If you have pipes located in areas without proper insulation, you may want to add a little extra to prevent freezing.  While insulation can help keep the pipe closer to the heat of the water in the pipe, it may not prevent freezing if the pipe is exposed continuously to very cold temperatures.

As always, please do not hesitate to give us a call if you have questions or need assistance.