With temperatures getting colder by the day, now is the time to perform those seasonal tasks that keep your home from succumbing to freezing weather. Since running water makes modern life easier, pipes need a special kind of TLC this time of year. Not to mention, busted pipes can be expensive to fix. To prevent damage and keep your water free-flowing, follow these simple steps.
- Make sure outside hoses are drained and properly stored, and close any inside valves that supply outdoor bibs. Keep the outside valve open.
- Make sure your home has proper insulation, as it will keep temperatures inside from becoming too cold.
- Drain all water from pools and/or sprinkler supply lines. Your owner’s manuals can help if you’re unsure how to complete these tasks.
- Make sure to keep garage doors closed, especially if water supply lines are in the garage.
- Keep bathroom and kitchen cabinets open, as it allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
- When outside temperatures reach the freezing point, let cold water drip from a faucet with exposed pipes, as it keeps the pipes from freezing.
- Keep the thermostat temperature as consistent as possible. Maintaining warmth, especially at night, helps protect pipes from cold temperatures.
- If you plan to be out of town, keep the heat on inside the home (no lower than 55 degrees).
- If you have exposed pipes, consider relocating them for further protection from the cold.
- Use protective coverings for exposed pipes, like heat cables, heat tape, or pipe sleeves. Even items like a newspaper can provide a certain degree of protection to exposed pipes.
- Keep an eye on water supply lines that sit in unheated areas (the garage, kitchen or bathroom cabinets) and makes sure both cold and hot water pipes are properly insulated.
- If pipes freeze, follow these steps to minimize damage.
- Keep faucets open, since any running water through the pipe will help melt ice.
- Apply heat to the pipe via an electric heating pad, hair dryer, portable space heater (make sure to keep it away from any flammable materials in the area), or hot water soaked towels. Do not use any open-flame element (propane or kerosene heater, blowtorch).
- If you cannot successfully reach or thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
- Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your home, but with preparation and planning, you can avoid catastrophe.
For all your plumbing needs, call the experts at Five Star Plumbing in San Antonio, TX.
