How to Keep Pipes From Freezing and Protect the Plumbing

Plumbing Tips for the Cold

One of the scariest scenarios that can happen to a home or business owner is turning on the tap in the winter and having no water come out due to frozen pipes. Not only does this mean that water won’t be available at a particular fixture until it thaws, but it also could mean serious damage around the property if pipes burst and water floods the home or business.

Preparing the plumbing for winter is one of the most important things a homeowner can do, but most people don’t know how. Here are some tips to help homeowners protect their plumbing during the fall and winter.

Update the Pipe Insulation

Most places in the US will experience freezing temperatures sometime throughout the year. This is possible even if the occurrence isn’t a yearly thing. Plumbing codes govern piping installation to avoid the complications of frozen pipes so that most pipes are protected without taking extra measures. However, there are always exceptions to the rules that can leave owners vulnerable in these situations. Some of the places where piping may fall victim to freezing are:

• Crawl spaces
• Attics
• Basements
• Outdoors

If plumbing is installed in these places, adding additional layers of protection is a good idea to ensure they don’t freeze when the weather is cold. The best product for this task is pipe insulation—a cost-effective product that can be installed easily. If pipes around the property are already insulated, owners should take the time to inspect and update them every few years for continued protection.

Raise the Temperature and Open Cabinets

Pipes are part of the property's infrastructure; when taken as a whole, the property is intended to offer them protection. The insulation within walls helps keep pipes from freezing, but during cold spells, the cold can seep in and freeze the pipes. If this is a concern, homeowners should ensure they have the heat on to keep the home warmer so they can protect pipes.

Part of the strategy of raising the thermostat is allowing warm air to circulate near pipes. Cabinets and doors can stifle airflow and lead to pockets of frigid air around pipes. Opening the cabinets and doors during cold spells allows warm air to circulate through the home so the pipes don’t freeze.

Outdoor Plumbing Tips

One of the biggest mistakes people make during the winter is not paying attention to their hoses. When winter weather freezes residual water in hoses, the cold temperatures can seep into the home and cause other pipes to freeze. To prepare the property for the cold, disconnect hoses from hose bibs, drain them so they don’t freeze and burst, and install foam hose bib covers to keep them from freezing. Owners can help ensure a safe winter, free from plumbing problems, by doing all these things.

About E.R. Services

E.R. Services are residential and commercial plumbing experts. Their teams can help protect plumbing with cutting-edge technology and expert techniques without worrying about extra chargers. Prepare your home for winter and call for plumbing services in Charlotte, NC, today.

Contact Information:

E.R. Services

11345 Allen Station Dr
Mint Hill, NC 28227
United States

Dave Parker
(704) 846-5371
https://www.erplumbing.com/