How to Prepare Your Home for a Freeze
How to Prepare Your Home for a Freeze
Winter weather can be harsh, and one of the most common problems homeowners face during the colder months is frozen pipes.
When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst, leading to costly repairs and water damage.
To prevent this from happening, it's important to take steps to prepare your home for a freeze.
Insulate Your Pipes
One of the most effective ways to prevent your pipes from freezing is by adding insulation to them.
You can use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to wrap around your pipes, which will help to keep them warm and prevent them from freezing.
Seal Drafts
Cold air can enter your home through small gaps and cracks, causing your pipes to freeze.
To prevent this, seal any drafts around your doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk.
Even a rolled up towel can be effective when sealing gaps in doors and window sills.
Disconnect Garden Hoses
If you have outdoor faucets, be sure to disconnect your garden hoses and store them in a shed or garage.
This will help to prevent water from freezing inside the hose and causing the faucet to freeze.
Close Inside Valves
If you have pipes that are exposed to the cold, such as those in an unfinished basement or crawl space, close the inside valves to prevent water from flowing through them.
This will help to reduce the risk of the pipes freezing.
Let Faucets Trickle Throughout the Home
Allowing a small amount of water to continuously flow through your pipes can help to prevent them from freezing.
If you're worried about your pipes freezing, try letting the faucets trickle throughout your home, especially those that are located on exterior walls.
Close Your Crawlspace Vents
If you have a crawlspace, be sure to close the vents to keep cold air out.
This will help to keep your pipes warmer and reduce the risk of them freezing.
Keep the Thermostat Set to a Minimum of 68 Degrees
To help prevent your pipes from freezing, keep your thermostat set to at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you're not home.
If you're going to be away for an extended period of time, consider leaving your thermostat set to a higher temperature.
Know Where the Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is
In the event that a pipe does freeze and burst, it's important to know where the main water shut-off valve is so that you can turn the water off and prevent further damage.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can help to protect your home and plumbing from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures.
If you're unsure about how to prepare your home for a freeze, or if you're experiencing problems with your plumbing, don't hesitate to contact a professional plumber for assistance.
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