How to Avoid Frozen Pipes This Winter
Winters can be brutal and so can the maintenance that comes with the harsh weather. A problem many homeowners deal with are freezing pipes. Use these tips to avoid bursting pipes and costly repairs.
If you have uninsulated pipes or walls, your pipes may be at risk of freezing and possibly even bursting. Take these measures when temperatures plummet.
Let the Water Drip
Keep your faucet dripping. Even though there will not be a lot coming out, the running water will help to keep your pipes from freezing!
Open Up Your Cabinet Doors
If your pipes are not insulated are running through uninsulated walls, try opening up kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors. This will allow any heat from the interior of your home to keep your pipes somewhat warm.
Maintain Your Heat
If you have a second home that you're not in during the winter, be sure to keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees. Do not scale back your heat at night. The cost of increased heat is greatly outweighed by the damaged bursted pipes can cause.
Apply Heat to Your Pipes
If your pipes have already froze, don't panic. Try using a space heater, hair dryer, or even a heating pad, to place heat directly on the frozen pipes. Do this while leaving your water running. Once your water is running at full pressure, you're good to go!
Prepare for the Long-term
To avoid the hassle in the future, invest in insulation in areas such as your attic and basement. This will protect your house from losing heat and freezing pipes!
