When winter weather is in full swing, it’s natural to have concerns about the overall condition of your home. And that holds true when it comes to your plumbing system. If your home’s pipes have frozen in the past, there’s a good chance that the same will happen this winter. However, there are steps you can take to prevent this from happening. Tip: don’t wait until a pipe freezes to take action. Preventative measures are what you’re after.
Here are three simple steps you can take this winter:
1. Search for Pipes in Unheated Areas of Your Home
Pipes located in unheated areas of your home are most likely to freeze. So, start your search in your garage, basement, attic, under sinks, and anywhere else that doesn’t get enough heat during the cold winter months. Once you find these areas, make note of all the pipes that are at risk. Doing so provides a clear understanding of which pipes require most of your attention.
2. Insulate the Pipes
Now that you know which pipes are most likely to freeze, it’s time to take action. And that typically means insulating the pipes. There are a variety of products designed specifically to keep pipes warm when temperatures drop. Some of the most common options include heat cable, heat tape, and pipe sleeve. You can apply all of these products directly to pipes. If you don’t want to spend money on one or more of these products, newspaper is another idea to consider. A thin layer of newspaper can protect pipes that don’t have constant exposure to below freezing temperatures.
3. Let Your Faucets Drip
This sounds like a bad idea, as it can result in a higher water bill. But since it’s only a drip, you shouldn’t notice much of a difference. When water is running through a pipe, it’s less likely to freeze. That is the case even if it’s coming out in a slow trickle.
How to Check if Your Pipes are Frozen
There are a variety of ways to determine if your pipes are frozen, including:
- There’s no running water upon turning on the faucet
- Frost is visible on the exterior of the pipe
- Strange smells due to odors from the pipe escaping back into your home
If you’ve had issues with frozen pipes in the past, you probably have a clear idea of the telltale signs that you’re once again facing this trouble.
Who to Call for Frozen Pipes in Boston
While it’s possible to insulate and even thaw frozen pipes on your own, it’s often best to consult with an experienced plumber. A professional can inspect your pipes, properly thaw them, and take measures to protect against freezing in the future. Furthermore, a plumber is less likely to make a mistake, which could result in a burst pipe followed by water damage which then becomes an emergency plumbing service.
Should you find yourself concerned about frozen pipes in your Boston home this winter, contact us to schedule an appointment. We can visit your home, assess the situation, and help you put this problem behind you.
Categories:
Plumbing
