Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes

When sub-zero weather strikes, every homeowner’s worry is, “What if the pipes freeze?” And with good reason. Frozen pipes are a headache and can cause extensive and costly damage to your home. They also account for the majority of emergency calls to plumbers during the winter. When water freezes inside the pipe, the pipe expands and can burst. When the water thaws, the water has nowhere to go besides inside your walls, ceilings, and floors. The best way to deal with frozen pipes is to avoid them in the first place.

Here are some steps you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing.

Drip Water

When frigid weather is forecast, turn on the faucets in your sinks and let just a trickle of water drip. Yes, it might sound annoying, but it’s worth a bit of inconvenience. Water continuously running through the pipes prevents them from freezing.

Open Cabinets

If you open the cabinets under your sinks, warm air will circulate around the pipes and prevent them from freezing.

Thermostat Setting

If you are going to be away from home during a cold snap, make sure your thermostat is set at a minimum of 55 degrees. This should keep your home warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing. If you are going to be out of town during the winter, ask a neighbor to come in and drip your pipes and open the cabinets.

Heat Tape and Sealants

Use caulk to seal any leaks and openings before winter hits. You can also wrap your pipes with heat tape. Just make sure you select the appropriate tape (indoor vs. outdoor) and that the wrapping material is UL-approved.

Atlas Butler Can Handle Frozen Pipes

If your pipes freeze, turn off the main water supply and call Atlas Butler. Do not try to thaw the pipes yourself by using a heat source such as an open flame; a hair dryer is much safer. At Atlas Butler, we’ve served the Central Ohio area for decades, so we’ve seen a frozen pipe or two. If your pipes are frozen, call us at 1-800-FURNACE. We offer emergency plumbing services, and our phones are answered by real people 24/7.