How to Keep your Pipes from Freezing
Brrr! Temperatures are dropping here in Fort Collins, meaning your pipes are at risk of freezing. When water inside the pipes freezes, it expands, increasing the risk of pipes bursting and causing expensive water damage. Fortunately, with some easy prep work, you can protect your plumbing from freezing temperatures.
What Temperature Do Pipes Freeze At?
Pipes typically begin to freeze when the temperature drops to 32°F or lower. However, it usually takes longer exposure to freezing temperatures—generally below 20°F—for pipes to become fully frozen and at risk of bursting. Pipes in unheated areas such as basements, attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls are most vulnerable to freezing.
How to Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing
Insulate Your Pipes
Proper insulation is one of the best ways to keep your pipes from freezing. To insulate your pipes, especially those in unheated areas, wrap them in foam pipe insulation. Use heat tape or heat cables on vulnerable pipes for extra protection. You should also insulate walls, basements, and crawl spaces to help maintain warmer temperatures.
2. Keep Your Home Warm
Keeping your home warm is crucial in preventing frozen pipes. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you aren’t home (we know—it feels like a waste!). But the extra cost of heat is nothing compared to the price you’ll pay for burst pipes!
You should also keep cabinet doors under your sinks open to allow warm water to circulate around the plumbing.
3. Let Faucets Drip
Running water is less likely to freeze, so letting faucets drip slightly can help. When temperatures plummet, turn on a slow, steady drip from faucets connected to exposed pipes. Focus on faucets along exterior walls and in colder areas of your home.
4. Drain Outdoor Water Sources
Frozen outdoor pipes can lead to indoor plumbing issues. To prevent burst pipes due to outdoor water sources, there are a few easy steps to take. You should disconnect and store garden hoses before winter, shut off your outdoor water supply and drain the pipes, and use insulated covers on outdoor faucets for extra protection.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If your pipes do freeze, act fast to prevent them from bursting.
First, locate the frozen pipe. Look for visible frost or bulging on exposed pipes. Turn on the faucet—if only a trickle comes out, the pipe is likely frozen.
Then, carefully thaw the pipe. Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels to gently warm the frozen section. Place a space heater nearby to raise the temperature in the room. While you’re thawing the pipe, be sure to open the faucet. This will allow any melted water to flow out, relieving pressure.
If you can’t find the frozen pipe or the pipe has burst, turn off the main water supply and call a plumber immediately.
By taking these precautions, you can protect your home from the costly damage caused by frozen pipes. Stay prepared and winter-proof your plumbing before the cold weather hits!
