01/10/2024
We have some very cold temperatures coming Friday thru next week. A few tips to help.
1. Drain Pipes
While frozen pipes typically do not result in a water leak right away, any accumulated frozen water inside eventually will thaw and cause surprise water leaks long after winter is over. To prevent any water from freezing in the first place, shut off any water lines leading outside the property, and drain any remaining water in the pipes by turning on a garden hose until water stops pouring out completely.
2. Check For Pipe Leaks
Plumbing leaks can be more problematic during the winter. A small leak in an over-the-ground pipe could not only freeze any residual water inside the pipe but also inside any connected pipework. If made out of plastic or copper, the pipe is also likely to split or break from the ice. To prevent any damage, check for leaks in all exposed piping and schedule repairs sooner rather than later.
3. Cover Outdoor Spigots & Sprinklers
Don’t forget to check for and repair leaks in outdoor faucets. Cold air and frost can also enter piping through water fixtures like spigots and lawn irrigation sprinklers. We recommend you cover all outdoor water fixtures with an insulating material such as heat tape and store all garden hoses inside to further prevent any pipes from freezing.
4. Insulate Pipes
Once drained, cover any exposed pipes with insulating materials as well to prevent them from freezing and cracking. For extra protection, add a layer of heat-tape.
5. Keep Water Flowing
In the case that the outside temperature drops below freezing, turn a few faucets on inside the property and allow them to drip overnight. Circulating water this way can help reduce the chance of freezing.
6. Improve Warm Air Circulation
On the coldest nights, open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air inside. Ventilating areas where pipes are usually hidden can further help prevent issues with frozen plumbing and leaky faucets. Switch all ceiling fans to spin clockwise and set them at the lowest setting. Circulating warm air will not only protect plumbing but also improve the heater’s efficiency, resulting in lower utility costs.
7. Avoid Setting The Thermostat Too Low
Decreasing the thermostat setting or shutting the heater off completely might be a good way to lower monthly heating costs, especially when on vacation, but doing so could also leave the inside plumbing vulnerable to the cold. As a general rule of thumb, the indoor temperature should be no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
8. Add Insulation
Prevent your pipes from freezing and keep your house warmer by making sure your home has adequate insulation. This includes insulating your exterior walls, crawl space or basement, attic, and in many cases, the pipes themselves.
9. Mobile Home Skirting
Make sure your skirting is up all around your home to prevent cold air and wind from freezing pipes under your house
Please give us a call if you have any questions or need advice on what to do in your particular case.
4796465585
