How to Protect Your Pipes from Freezing This Winter

• Install Pipe Insulation

In extreme cold, the pipes located in unheated areas are vulnerable to freezing. It is a good idea to insulate the pipes running through at-risk areas, such as the garage, attic, crawl space, under sinks, and basement. Wrap the pipes with insulation covers to decrease the chances of freezing. Alternatively, you can apply heating tape to the pipes to keep them warm when cold weather sets in. If you need help with insulating your pipes, call a local plumbing repair service. The skilled plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing have the knowledge and experience to insulate different types of pipes, no matter where they are located.

• Open Cabinet Doors

The pipes located in cabinets are susceptible to freezing, especially if they’re not insulated. It’s advisable to open cabinet doors so that warmer air can circulate around the pipes behind cabinets and prevent freezing. You may want to install pipe sleeves on uninsulated pipes to protect them from freezing temperatures. A professional plumber specializing in pipe insulation can help you with this task.

• Seal Drafts

Inspect your home for any drafts that may be letting cold air in and exposing your pipes to freezing. Some of the common areas to check for drafts include around vents, electrical wiring, and pipes. When the temperatures plummet this winter, even the tiniest of openings can let in cold air and increase the risk of your pipes freezing. Use caulk or insulation to seal cracks and openings that could let in cold air. This preventative measure will not only protect your pipes from freezing, but it will also lower your energy bills.

• Keep Your Garage Door Closed

The garage is often not as well insulated as other parts of the house. This means the pipes running through the garage are susceptible to freezing. Make sure your garage door is closed to prevent cold air from seeping into the garage and potentially freezing the pipes. In addition, make sure the weatherstripping around the garage door is in good condition and seal tightly.

• Maintain a Steady Temperature Even When You’re Not At Home

Another way to keep your pipes warm this winter is to set the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees. In normal weather, lowering your thermostat can help you cut down on heating costs. However, adjusting the thermostat downward during winter can do more harm than good. In fact, it is not worth the few bucks you’ll save if you consider the possibility of a burst pipe and the amount of money you’ll spend on pipe repair in Morgantown. Make sure you maintain a consistent temperature during cold weather to protect your pipes from freezing.

• Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Most homeowners do not think about outdoor hoses until they freeze and affect the hose bibs they are connected to. It is advisable to drain outdoor hoses and turn off the water to outside faucets, drip irrigation systems, and sprinklers. Use insulation covers to protect outdoor faucets from ice buildup.

If you need help with winterizing your home, look no further than Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We are a reputable plumbing company offering a full range of services, including pipe insulation, leak detection, repiping, and more.