Tips to Keep Pipes from Freezing

Pipes From FreezingEarlier this month we discussed why water pipes burst. This time we’d like to offer a few suggestions on how to keep those pipes from freezing!

1. Insulation. Think about where the coldest places are in your home … for most of us it is the basement. Take a trip downstairs and notice where your pipes are running. Take special attention to those near the outside wall or windows. If you think those areas are the coldest in your basement, special precautions may be needed. Insulation sleeves for pipes can be purchased in most home improvement stores. Plumbing pipes that are not properly insulated can cause you a lot of stress and money when temperatures fall.

2. Heating tape. If you consider yourself a handy person, heating tape might be the diagnosis for pipes that get exceptionally cold. It can also be purchased at the local home improvement store. Heating tape should always come with safety precautions, so be sure to read the instructions thoroughly before starting your project.

3. We hope disconnecting hoses from outdoor faucets were a part of your end of fall ritual. Even “frostproof” faucets can burst if a hose is connected.

Extra Heat

If you are frantic because temperatures are taking a severe dive, here’s a few more suggestions:

Open the cupboard doors in your kitchen and bathrooms to give the pipes extra warmth.

While most of us are trained to have that thermostat turned down at night, when temperatures take an extreme dip, you should consider spending the extra dollars and leave your home a few degrees warmer.

Permanent Protection

If you worry each and every winter about the possibility of freezing pipes, it might be time to call us for an appointment. We can suggest ways to take care of the weakest links in your plumbing system.

If you run into plumbing problems in West Haven & Fairfield Counties, Rick’s Plumbing can help! Check out our money saving coupons and then give Rick’s Plumbing a call. If you need it quick, call Rick!

203-457-3201