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Winter Plumbing Preparation Tips: How to Prevent Pipes From Freezing

As temperatures drop, homeowners often face a common and costly problem: frozen pipes. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, potentially leading to pipe bursts and expensive repairs. According to industry experts, burst pipe repair costs around $500 on average, and up to $5,000 in extreme cases. Fortunately, with some preparation and simple maintenance, you can protect your home from this issue. Here are some essential winter plumbing tips from Norfolk Plumbing to help you prevent your pipes from freezing.

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, and exterior walls are the most at risk of freezing. Insulating these pipes with foam or pipe sleeves is one of the best preventive steps. Even using electrical heating tape can provide an extra layer of protection.

Tip: Pay attention to pipes running through unheated spaces and outdoor areas, as these are the most susceptible to freezing.

2. Maintain a Consistent Indoor Temperature

Keeping your home at a steady temperature, especially overnight, is crucial for preventing frozen pipes. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F, even if you’re away on vacation. Though this may increase your heating bill slightly, it’s far more cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath of a burst pipe.

Tip: If you have rooms that are more prone to cold, such as a drafty basement or a garage, consider placing space heaters in those areas for added protection.

3. Let Faucets Drip

One of the simplest ways to prevent frozen pipes during a cold snap is to let your faucets drip slightly. This keeps water moving, reducing the chances of it freezing inside the pipes. A small, steady flow can make a big difference when temperatures drop drastically.

Tip: Focus on faucets connected to vulnerable pipes, such as those in exterior walls or unheated areas of your home.

4. Seal Gaps and Drafts

Cold drafts entering your home can quickly freeze nearby pipes. Inspect your home for gaps around windows, doors, and areas where pipes enter through walls. Use caulk or insulation to seal these areas and keep the cold air out. Not only will this help protect your pipes, but it can also improve your home’s energy efficiency.

5. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Outdoor plumbing is especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Before winter hits, disconnect and drain any outdoor hoses, as leaving them connected can cause water to back up into your pipes and freeze. Additionally, consider installing insulated covers on exterior spigots to provide an extra layer of protection.

6. Know Your Main Shut-Off Valve

In case of an emergency, it’s essential to know where your home’s main water shut-off valve is located. If a pipe freezes and bursts, turning off the water supply quickly can prevent severe flooding and extensive water damage. Make sure everyone in your household knows where this valve is and how to operate it.

7. Drain Your Water Heater

Your water heater works harder in the winter to keep water warm, and a buildup of sediment can reduce its efficiency. Draining your water heater at the beginning of winter removes this buildup and helps it function more effectively throughout the season.

8. Open Cabinet Doors

In particularly cold parts of your home, such as under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms, leave cabinet doors open during freezing weather. This allows warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes, reducing the likelihood of freezing. This tip is particularly helpful for sinks along exterior walls.

Prevention Is Key

By following these winter plumbing tips, you can minimize the risk of frozen pipes and avoid expensive repairs. Prevention is always the best strategy, and simple steps like insulating exposed pipes, maintaining a steady temperature, and allowing faucets to drip can make a big difference.

Stay prepared this winter, and if you have any concerns about your plumbing, Norfolk Plumbing is here to help with expert advice and services to keep your pipes safe and flowing smoothly all season long. Contact us today to schedule your service!