When winter rolls around and temperatures drop, one of the biggest headaches for homeowners is frozen pipes. Not only can they disrupt your water supply, but they can also burst and lead to costly water damage. The good news? With a little preparation and care, you can prevent frozen pipes and avoid the stress that comes with them. Here’s what you need to know to keep your plumbing safe this winter.

Why Do Pipes Freeze?

Pipes freeze when temperatures dip below 32°F, causing the water inside them to turn to ice. As water freezes, it expands, which puts tremendous pressure on your pipes. If the pressure builds up too much, the pipe can burst, leaving you with a big mess and an even bigger repair bill.

Simple Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate Your Pipes: Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, or crawl spaces are most vulnerable to freezing. Wrap them in foam pipe insulation, which you can find at any hardware store. It’s an easy and affordable way to add a layer of protection.

2. Let Faucets Drip: When temperatures are expected to plummet, let your faucets drip slightly. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and the small trickle can help relieve pressure in the pipes, overall reducing the risk of a burst.

3. Seal Gaps and Cracks: Cold air can sneak into your home through gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and pipes. Use caulk or spray foam to seal these areas. Pay extra attention to spots where pipes enter your home—a small draft can make a big difference.

4. Open Cabinet Doors: Got pipes under your sink? open the cabinet doors to let the warm air from your home circulate around them. This is especially important if the pipes are on an exterior wall.

5. Keep the Heat On: Even if you’re heading out of town, don’t turn off your heat completely. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F to make sure your home stays warm enough to prevent freezing.

6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Drain and store garden hoses before the first freeze. Leaving them attached to outdoor faucets can cause the faucet and connected pipes to freeze and crack.

7. Install Heat Tape: For particularly vulnerable pipes, consider using heat tape or heat cables. These can be plugged in and wrapped around the pipes to keep them warm. Just make sure you’re following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure safe use.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze

Despite your best efforts, pipes can still freeze in extreme conditions. If this happens, here’s what you should do:

• Turn Off the Water: Shut off the main water valve to prevent pressure buildup and potential bursts.
• Thaw the Pipe Gently: Use a hairdryer or wrap the pipe with warm towels. Never use an open flame or blowtorch as these can cause fires or damage the pipe.
• Call a Professional: If you can’t locate the frozen section or the pipe has already burst, call a licensed plumber (like Roman Home Services) for help.

Contact Roman Home Services in Southeastern Wisconsin Today!

Frozen pipes are a common winter problem, but they’re entirely preventable with a little planning and care. By taking these steps now, you can save yourself the hassle and expense of dealing with a burst pipe later. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure—especially when it comes to your home’s plumbing.

If you’re unsure about how to protect your pipes or need professional help, don’t hesitate to reach out to Roman Home Services. We’re here to help you stay warm and worry-free all winter long!