How to Prevent Freezing Pipes This Winter: Tips and Solutions

As the cold weather approaches, it's essential to start thinking about how to keep your home's plumbing safe from freezing temperatures. When temperatures drop, pipes can freeze, burst, and lead to costly water damage. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent this from happening. In this blog, we’ll cover practical steps you can take to protect your pipes this winter. And if things don’t go as planned, remember that Gary's Plumbing & Heating offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services to get you back on track.

Why Do Pipes Freeze?

Pipes freeze when temperatures drop below freezing (32°F). When water inside the pipes turns to ice, it expands, which can cause pipes to crack or burst. This often leads to flooding and significant water damage in homes. The most at-risk areas are usually unheated or exposed spaces, like basements, attics, garages, and outdoor pipes.

Simple Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
   Insulating your pipes is one of the best ways to prevent freezing. Use foam pipe insulation, especially on pipes located in unheated areas of your home. This simple step can make a big difference when the temperature drops.
   
   
2. Let Faucets Drip
   On extremely cold nights, letting your faucets drip just a little can help prevent freezing. Even a slow drip keeps water moving in the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.
   
   
3. Seal Cracks and Openings
   Inspect areas around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home. Seal any cracks or openings to prevent cold air from getting inside. Cold drafts can quickly freeze pipes, so blocking them out is crucial.
   
   
4. Keep Interior Doors Open
   If your pipes run through cabinets or closets, keep those doors open to allow warm air to circulate. This helps keep the pipes warm, even on the coldest days.
   
   
5. Maintain a Steady Indoor Temperature
   Try to keep your home’s thermostat set at a consistent temperature, especially if you're going away for a few days. While it might be tempting to turn down the heat to save energy, maintaining a steady temperature will help prevent your pipes from freezing.
   
   
6. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
   Before the first freeze, make sure to disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets. Leaving hoses attached can trap water in the hose bib, which can freeze and cause damage to your plumbing system.
   
   
7. Install Pipe Heating Cables
   If you have pipes that are particularly prone to freezing, consider installing pipe heating cables. These cables wrap around the pipes and provide a low level of heat to prevent freezing. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

What To Do If Your Pipes Freeze

Even with the best precautions, pipes can sometimes still freeze. If you suspect a pipe is frozen, here’s what you should do:

1. Turn Off the Water - Shut off the water supply to the affected area to prevent further damage.
2. Open the Faucet - Open the faucet to release any pressure, and let the water escape as it melts.
3. Apply Heat Carefully - Use a space heater, heating pad, or hair dryer to slowly warm the pipe. Never use an open flame.
4. Call for Professional Help - If you’re unable to locate or thaw the frozen pipe, it’s best to call a professional plumber.

Emergency Plumbing Services When You Need Them Most

When freezing temperatures lead to plumbing issues, swift action is crucial. That’s why Gary's Plumbing & Heating is here 24/7 to assist with any plumbing emergencies. Whether a pipe has burst or you’re struggling to locate a frozen pipe, expert technicians are ready to help any time, day or night. And with Gary's Promise, you can count on:

• Comfort: Reliable solutions to restore warmth and water flow in your home.
• Honesty: Clear and upfront pricing with no surprises.
• Respect for Your Home: Clean and efficient service, treating your space as if it were our own.
• No Extra Charges for Nights or Weekends: Plumbing problems don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we.

Stay Warm and Protected This Winter

Preventing frozen pipes is all about early preparation. By taking these proactive steps now, you can save yourself the hassle and cost of emergency repairs later. If you do run into trouble, remember that help is just a phone call away. Gary's Plumbing & Heating is committed to providing top-notch service, no matter the hour, so you can rest easy knowing your home is in good hands.

For more tips or to schedule a plumbing inspection, give us a call or view our plumbing services today. Let’s keep your home warm, safe, and dry this winter!