How to Prevent and Address Frozen Pipes
Friday, February 24, 2023 , Posted by Bradhaw Plumbing
Frozen pipes are a common problem during the winter months here in Canada. When the water inside pipes freezes, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst, leading to costly damage to your home. It’s not something you want to happen in your home. The good news is there are several steps you can take to prevent and address frozen pipes. Here are 5 effective ways to keep your pipes from freezing in your home:
Insulate your pipes
One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate them. Pipes located in unheated areas, such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces, are most susceptible to freezing. You can insulate these pipes with foam pipe insulation or heat tape to keep them from getting too cold. You can also insulate the walls and floors around these pipes to keep the surrounding air warm.
Keep your home warm
Another way to prevent frozen pipes is to keep your home warm. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F (13 C). A common mistake homeowners make is turning down or even turning off the heat when leaving their homes for an extended period of time. Keeping the temperature up will help keep the pipes in your home from getting too cold. You can also open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes located under sinks or in cabinets.
Let faucets drip
This may sound odd, but letting faucets drip during extremely cold weather can also help prevent frozen pipes. When water is moving through the pipes, it is less likely to freeze. Dripping faucets also relieve pressure in the pipes, reducing the risk of a burst pipe. It’s recommended to let both hot and cold water faucets drip at a slow trickle.
Identify potential issues that could lead to frozen pipes
Sealing cracks and gaps in the walls, foundation, and roof of your home can help prevent cold air from entering. This will help keep your home and pipes warm during cold weather. You can use caulk, foam insulation, or weather stripping to seal any gaps or cracks.
Protect your pipes during renovations
Make sure you consider your pipes if you are doing a renovation project during the winter. If pipes are exposed in the ceiling or attic, use a space heater to warm the room to ensure the pipes don’t freeze.
What to do if your pipes freeze
If you suspect that your pipes have frozen, take immediate action to prevent them from bursting. Turn off the main water supply to your home and open faucets to relieve pressure in the pipes. Use a hair dryer or heat gun to slowly warm the pipe, starting from the end nearest the faucet.
Are you concerned you may have frozen pipes? Want a plumber to take a look? Look no further! We can help you with all your plumber needs right here at Bradshaw Plumbing. Book a service call with our plumbing professionals today.
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