Winter is here, and with it, the risk of frozen pipes. Frozen pipes can cause serious damage to your home and plumbing system, as well as pose a safety hazard. If water freezes inside your pipes, it expands and puts pressure on the walls of the pipes, which can lead to cracks, leaks, or even bursts. Not only can this result in costly repairs, but also flooding, mold, and contamination of your water supply.

Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent frozen pipes and protect your home from the cold. Here are some tips from our expert plumbers at Awesome Plumbing:

• Insulate your pipes. The most effective way to prevent frozen pipes is to keep them warm with insulation. You can buy pipe insulation materials at your local hardware store, such as foam sleeves, heat tape, or heat cables. Wrap them around your exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, crawl spaces, garages, or outside walls. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions when installing insulation.
• Keep your faucets dripping. Another way to prevent frozen pipes is to keep a small amount of water flowing through them. This reduces the pressure inside the pipes and prevents ice from forming. Turn on your faucets slightly, so that they drip at a steady rate. You don’t need to waste a lot of water, just enough to keep the pipes from freezing. This is especially important for faucets that are connected to pipes that run along exterior walls or are exposed to cold air.
• Open your cabinet doors. If you have pipes under your sinks, you can help them stay warm by opening the cabinet doors. This allows the warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes and prevent them from freezing. You can also place a small space heater near the pipes, but make sure to keep it away from flammable materials and follow the safety guidelines.
• Seal any gaps or cracks. If you have any gaps or cracks in your walls, floors, or ceilings, you should seal them with caulk or foam. This will prevent cold air from entering your home and reaching your pipes. You should also check your doors and windows for drafts and weatherstrip them if needed. By keeping your home well-insulated, you can save energy and prevent frozen pipes.
• Shut off and drain your outdoor faucets. If you have outdoor faucets, such as hose bibs or sprinklers, you should shut them off and drain them before winter. This will prevent any water from freezing inside them and causing damage. To do this, locate the shut-off valve for your outdoor faucets, usually located inside your home or basement. Turn it off and then open the faucets outside to let the water drain out. You can also use an air compressor to blow out any remaining water. Once the faucets are drained, you can cover them with insulation or faucet covers to protect them from the cold.

By following these tips, you can prevent frozen pipes and avoid the hassle and expense of dealing with them. However, if you do encounter a frozen pipe, don’t panic. You can try to thaw it yourself by applying gentle heat, such as a hair dryer, a heating pad, or a hot towel. Do not use any open flames, such as a blowtorch, as this can cause a fire or damage the pipes. If you are not sure how to thaw a frozen pipe, or if you notice any signs of leaks or bursts, call a professional plumber right away. At Awesome Plumbing, we are available 24/7 to handle any plumbing emergencies, including frozen pipes. Contact us today for a free estimate and fast service. We are your trusted and reliable plumbing experts in the area. Stay warm and safe this winter with Awesome Plumbing! www.2ThumbsUpPlumbing.com 208-891-1104