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The first snow of the season is here which is a great time to remind everyone that frozen pipes can cause major damage. The best way to deal with this problem is to prevent it altogether. The following methods will help protect your home and plumbing from cold weather-related damage.
- Maintain Temperatures Around Pipes – Areas like attics and crawl spaces are often unheated or have limited access to climate control. Make sure these areas are kept at higher temperatures to prevent pipe freezing.
- Install Fiberglass Insulation in Attic or Crawl Space – Installing fiberglass insulation can protect your plumbing from low temperatures. This should be done while wearing heavy duty disposable coveralls, work gloves, and a dust mask.
- Leave Cabinet Doors Open in the Kitchen – Pipes that connect to the kitchen sink are often found behind cabinets and along exterior walls. These spaces are harder to keep heated. Leave cabinet doors open in the kitchen to allow indoor heating to enter and warm pipes.
- Turn Off the Main Water Valve – If you have no other options or if your home will be unoccupied for a length of time, turn off the main water valve. If the water remaining in a pipe freezes, it will significantly decrease the potential damage because spillage will be minimal.
- Use a Heating Cable to Warm Pipes – Heating cable or heat tape is designed to keep pipes warm. This can be especially helpful in mobile homes. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions when installing.
Contact Putman and Son’s Plumbing for recommendations for all of your plumbing needs. Our certified plumbing experts can identify problem areas in your home and help find a solution before a pipe bursts.
