As the temperatures drop and winter sets in, one of the most important things homeowners need to think about is how to protect their plumbing system from freezing pipes. Frozen pipes are a serious concern that can lead to costly repairs and major water damage. At Frost & Kretsch Plumbing, we know how critical it is to winterize your plumbing system to prevent freezing and ensure your home stays warm and dry all season long. Here’s a simple guide on how to protect your pipes during the colder months.
1. Insulate Your Pipes
One of the easiest ways to protect your plumbing system is by insulating your pipes. Uninsulated pipes, especially those located in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces, are at risk of freezing when the temperature drops. You can buy pipe insulation from most home improvement stores, or you can use towels or newspaper as a temporary solution.
For the best protection, consider using foam pipe insulation or heat tape for particularly vulnerable areas. Frost & Kretsch Plumbing can help you determine which areas of your home need extra insulation and offer professional installation if needed.
2. Keep the Heat On
Even if you’re planning on being away from home during the winter months, it’s important to keep the heat on, even at a lower setting. A consistent temperature of at least 55°F will help keep your pipes from freezing. You can set your thermostat to a lower temperature if you’re going out of town, but make sure to leave some heat running.
3. Let Faucets Drip
In extremely cold temperatures, one of the best ways to keep your pipes from freezing is by allowing a slow drip of water from your faucets. This helps relieve pressure that can build up in the pipes, reducing the chances of a freeze. Make sure to do this for both hot and cold water faucets, especially those located on exterior walls or in unheated spaces.
4. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Cold air can seep into your home through gaps and cracks in your walls, floors, and around windows and doors. These small openings can create cold drafts that lead to frozen pipes. Make sure to seal up any gaps in your foundation, window frames, or exterior walls, and consider using weatherstripping or foam sealant around windows and doors.
5. Disconnect Hoses and Shut Off Outdoor Faucets
Outdoor faucets are particularly vulnerable during winter, as they can freeze quickly if not properly shut off. Make sure to disconnect any garden hoses from outdoor faucets and store them inside for the winter. Additionally, shut off the water supply to any outdoor faucets and drain the lines to prevent freezing and bursting.
6. Protect Your Garage and Attic Pipes
If you have pipes running through your garage or attic, it’s important to provide extra protection. These spaces can get particularly cold during winter, so make sure they are properly insulated. You can use pipe insulation or even keep the garage door closed when not in use to keep the temperature in check.
Call Frost & Kretsch Plumbing for Professional Winterization
Taking the steps to winterize your plumbing system can save you a lot of trouble in the long run. However, if you’re not sure where to start or need assistance with any of these tips, Frost & Kretsch Plumbing is here to help. Our expert plumbers are experienced in winterizing plumbing systems and can offer personalized advice to keep your pipes safe during the cold months.
For professional plumbing services and advice, give us a call today.
Address: 33717 Woodward #246, Birmingham, MI 48009
Phone: (248) 600-0426
Website: https://oakland-plumbers.com/
By taking the right precautions and ensuring your plumbing system is properly winterized, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe all season long.
Frost & Kretsch Plumbing: Your Trusted Plumber in Ferndale for All Your Plumbing Needs
