How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing: A Winter Survival Guide for Jacksonians
Winter brings with it a host of challenges and one of the most common issues Jackson homeowners face is frozen pipes. When water freezes inside a pipe, it can expand and cause the pipe to burst, leading to expensive repairs and water damage. Fortunately, there are several simple steps residents can take to prevent this from happening. Here’s how to keep your pipes safe and sound during the cold months.
How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing
1. Insulate Your Pipes
Exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, or crawl spaces are the most vulnerable. Wrap these pipes with insulation materials, such as foam pipe sleeves or heat tape. For extra protection, combine insulation with a layer of fiberglass wrap.
2. Seal Cracks and Openings
Cold air can seep into your home through small cracks and openings near pipes. Use caulk or expanding foam to seal gaps in walls, floors, and ceilings around pipes. Pay special attention to areas where utilities and cables enter your home.
3. Keep Your Home Warm
Maintain a consistent temperature inside your home, even when you’re away. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (12°C) to ensure that your pipes don’t freeze.
4. Let Faucets Drip
Allowing a small trickle of water to flow through your faucets can prevent freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze than stagnant water. This is especially helpful for faucets connected to pipes running along exterior walls.
5. Open Cabinet Doors
If you have pipes under kitchen or bathroom sinks, leave cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate the pipes. Be sure to remove any harmful chemicals or cleaning products if you have children or pets.
6. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Leaving hoses attached to outdoor spigots can cause water to back up into the pipes and freeze. Disconnect and store hoses, and use an insulated cover to protect outdoor faucets.
7. Install Pipe Heating Cables
For areas with extremely cold winters, consider installing heating cables or heat tape. These devices can be plugged in and used to keep pipes warm. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe installation and operation.
8. Locate Your Main Water Shutoff Valve
In case a pipe does freeze and burst, you’ll need to shut off your water quickly to minimize damage. Locate your home’s main water shutoff valve and ensure everyone in your household knows where it is and how to use it.
9. Winterize Unoccupied Properties
If you’re leaving a property vacant for the winter, drain the water from the plumbing system and shut off the water supply. Add antifreeze to toilets and other fixtures to prevent any remaining water from freezing.
10. Stay Alert to Weather Forecasts
Be proactive and monitor the weather during cold snaps. If extreme temperatures are expected, take extra precautions, such as increasing insulation or letting faucets drip overnight.
How to Thaw Frozen Pipes
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open-flame device.
Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes and the costly damage they can cause. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free winter season for you and your home.
Related Stories
