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Protecting Your Pipes During Cold Winter Months
As temperatures drop, frozen pipes become a common winter hazard for homeowners. Pipes that freeze can burst, leading to costly water damage and repair bills. Here’s how to safeguard your home and keep your pipes flowing even in the coldest months:
1. Insulate Your Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes in foam insulation, especially those in unheated areas like basements, garages, or crawl spaces. Insulation sleeves or heat tape are effective and easy to install.
2. Keep a Steady Temperature: Maintain a consistent indoor temperature, even when you’re away. Set your thermostat no lower than 55°F to prevent internal pipes from freezing.
3. Allow Faucets to Drip: When temperatures plummet, let your faucets drip slightly. Running water, even a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.
4. Seal Drafts: Inspect your home for drafts near pipes and seal them with caulk or insulation. Cold air seeping in can quickly freeze nearby plumbing.
5. Open Cabinet Doors: In kitchens and bathrooms, leave cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes, especially on exterior walls.
6. Locate Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve: Know where your main water shut-off valve is and how to operate it. If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly can minimize damage.
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy a warm and stress-free winter season without the worry of frozen pipes disrupting your home life.
For more winter tips, give us a call at (208) 476-1950!