How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing This Winter

Freezing pipes cause thousands of dollars in damage every single year. Burst pipes are among the leading causes of property damage during winter months, in fact, and can lead to all manner of other issues. Taking a proactive approach by protecting your pipes from frigid temperatures is the way to go. 

Which Pipes Are at Risk?

Pipes on exterior walls and in uninsulated spaces are most at risk for freezing. However, if it gets cold enough, even pipes running through other areas of your home may freeze. Pipes in the basement, for example, may be more prone to freezing. 

Make sure that you know where your pipes are, and which ones need a little extra protection. Call in a plumber for assistance to make sure that nothing is missed. 

Insulate Pipes 

If you have pipes that you can access, insulation is a great choice. They make pipe insulation just for this reason, and it doesn’t cost much at all. In fact, you may spend as little as 50 cents for a linear foot of it. Even if you need a lot of insulation, it’s still a fraction of what you’d spend cleaning up burst pipes in the aftermath. 

Crack Faucets 

When there’s a risk of freezing pipes, one of the best things you can do is to open all the faucets in your home the slightest bit. A small drip is enough to keep the water in the pipes moving without wasting excessive water. This may not always work, but it’s a good practice to have just in case. 

Turn Up the Heat 

If the temperatures are dipping into the negatives on a regular basis, it might be a good idea to turn up your thermostat a little more. Keeping it a few degrees warmer will help stave off the cold and reduce the risk of freezing. You can also use heaters near or directed toward your pipes but be careful not to create fire hazards and never leave space heaters unattended. 

If your pipes are frozen, don’t immediately start heating them or trying to thaw them. Breaking the freeze too suddenly leads to bursting and broken pipes. Make sure that you contact Elk Grove Village Sewer & Plumbing to help you thaw your pipes without causing any unnecessary damage. Plus, they’ll be able to offer specific tips to help you prevent freezing pipes in the future.