Winters might not always bring snow, but when the temperatures suddenly drop, they can still cause big problems—especially frozen pipes. For both homeowners and business owners, a little preparation can go a long way in preventing costly repairs and staying comfortable. Here’s your step-by-step guide to staying ahead of the cold and keeping things running smoothly, no matter how cold or chilly it gets.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Big Deal
When the temperature dips below freezing, the water in your pipes can freeze, expand, and cause the pipe to crack or burst. The result? Water leaks, flooding, and a big headache. Preventing this issue is simpler (and more cost-effective) than repairing it afterward.
Easy Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Insulate Your Pipes
- Wrap exposed pipes in foam insulation or use pipe sleeves to keep them warm.
- Pay extra attention to pipes in unheated areas, like basements, garages, or crawl spaces.
- Seal Up Drafts
- Use caulk or insulation to close gaps around windows, doors, and walls near your pipes.
- Add weather stripping to doors to block out the cold air that could reach your pipes.
- Let Warm Air Circulate
- Leave cabinet doors open under sinks so the warm air in your home can reach the pipes.
- Keep the Faucets Dripping
- When it’s freezing outside, let a small stream of water run from your faucets. Moving water is much less likely to freeze.
- Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
- Drain and remove your garden hoses and turn off the water supply to exterior faucets. You can also use faucet covers for an extra layer of protection.
- Use Heat Tape for Extra Cold Spots
- Heat tape or heating cables can be wrapped around vulnerable pipes to keep them warm. Just make sure you're following the safety instructions when using these products.
Keep Your Home or Business Warm
- Set Your Thermostat and Forget It
- Keep your thermostat at 68°F (20°C) or higher—even at night or when you’re out. Lowering it might save a few bucks on energy, but it also increases the risk of frozen pipes.
- Add Heat to Problem Areas
- Use a space heater in cold rooms like basements, attics, or back offices. Always use them safely and carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Consider a Smart Thermostat
- Smart thermostats make it easy to keep temperatures consistent without running up your energy bill. Plus, you can control them from your phone or tablet for convenience.
Tips for Business Owners
If you own a business, here are a few extra steps to protect your property:
- Keep Employees and Tenants in the Loop: Let them know how to prevent frozen pipes, like dripping faucets or opening cabinets in colder areas.
- Check All the Pipes: Make sure you inspect pipes in rarely used spaces, like storage and server rooms, or vacant offices.
- Stay on Top of Maintenance: Have your HVAC and plumbing systems checked regularly to catch and prevent issues early.
Keeping Seniors Safe in the Cold
Seniors are especially vulnerable to the cold, even indoors. Here’s how to keep them comfortable and safe:
- Set the thermostat to at least 70°F in homes with elderly family members.
- Encourage warm, layered clothing, like sweaters, thermal socks, and cozy slippers.
- Have blankets and throws readily available, especially for bedtime.
- If a senior you know happens to live alone, check in on them often to make sure their heating is working and they’re staying warm.
What to Do if a Pipe Freezes
Despite your best efforts, pipes can still freeze occasionally. Here’s how to handle it:
- Turn Off the Water
- Shut off the main water supply immediately to prevent flooding if a pipe bursts.
- Thaw Pipes Slowly
- Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or space heater to warm the frozen section of pipe. Start at the faucet and work back to the frozen area. Never use a torch or open flame!
- Call in the Pros
- If you’re not sure what to do or can’t find the frozen pipe and dealing with a leak, call a licensed restoration service or plumber for help.
Plan Ahead for Future Freezes
- Routine Maintenance: Schedule an annual plumbing and leak inspection to make sure everything is ready for the next winter.
- Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency stash with tools, blankets, flashlights, and other supplies in case of power outages or unexpected cold snaps.
Don’t get caught off guard by unpredictable winter weather. With a few simple steps, prevent frozen pipes, leaks, and water damage to save money and avoid stress. Stay warm, prepared, and cozy despite the dropping temperature.
At All Dry Parkland, we know how critical it is to address water damage quickly and effectively. Our dedicated and passionate team excels in leak detection, flood damage, and water damage restoration, using advanced equipment to ensure optimal results. In need of immediate assistance? Contact us today at 754-364-0859 or connect with our dedicated team.