Written on: February 13, 2023
Merely mentioning frozen pipes can cause deep apprehension among folks living on the South Shore.
The winter season brings with it the risk of frozen pipes that can easily burst, resulting in costly repairs and remediation work.
At Williams Energy, our team of expert plumbers are all licensed and knowledgeable professionals who can help you if your pipes freeze.
We are dedicated to providing you with the tools needed to prevent frozen pipes, so that you can rest assured your home is safe.
Proactively safeguarding against frozen pipes is critical, and the best way to do that is by having a plan in place.
To prevent damage from winter weather, it’s essential to take certain precautions in advance. Shutting off water pipes that are vulnerable to freezing is a key step. This includes pool and sprinkler supply lines as well as any other plumbing susceptible to cold temperatures.
Don’t wait until the winter is upon us to detach all your outdoor garden hoses from their spigots and drain out any water that might still be inside them. Store these in a dry location afterward, such as your garage or shed. Next, shut off all interior valves connected with those external access points. Shield your hose spigots against extreme weather with an insulating cover, which you can purchase from any plumbing or home improvement store or online.
To protect your water lines from the cold, make sure to keep your attached garage door closed.
Utilize your programmable or smart thermostat to safeguard those pipes. Do not set the thermostat any lower than 55° Fahrenheit, especially if you are going to be away from home for more than a day or two.
Make sure the warmth from your home’s heating stays inside by insulating around vents and light fixtures, sealing any wall cracks (especially near utility service lines) with caulk or weatherstripping, and using additional sealants on doors and windows to keep out drafts.
Paying close attention to the weather report will help you anticipate any potential issues with your pipes. When frigid weather hits, run your faucets with a low-pressure stream of water. Additionally, open cabinets in areas where plumbing is located to allow warm air to reach your pipes. These are especially important to do when plumbing is against an exterior wall to combat the cold outside and any drafts getting in your home.
Although you may be taking precautions, icy temperatures can still result in frozen pipes. But don’t panic: the most important thing is to remain calm and take action. You can potentially prevent your frozen pipes from bursting, thus averting damages to your home. Try following these steps.
The team of expert plumbers at Williams Energy can help take care of all your plumbing needs! Contact us for service.