The winter is coming, so it’s time to start preparing your home against common winter plumbing problems. It's known that one of the most common and potentially disastrous winter plumbing problems is frozen pipes. When the water inside the pipes freezes, it puts excess pressure on your pipes which can cause them to burst. When these pipes burst, they can cause leaks and floods, which can lead to significant water damage and expensive repairs. CPR24 Restoration has some recommendations that you can prevent the frozen pipes during the winter.
Winterizing Indoor Pipes
There are many easy ways to ensure your indoor pipes are prepped and ready for the deep freeze. To start, know where your main water shut off is. In the off chance your pipes burst, you need to know how to shut off your water and fast. Another good rule of thumb is to have a temporary patch kit handy, in case of small pipe leaks or cracks. When the weather improves, get a professional plumber to make a permanent repair.
Frozen Pipes? Insulate Them
One of the most efficient ways to protect your home against frozen pipes is to have your plumbing system fully insulated. You can purchase wrapping for your pipes at most hardware stores, or have your pipes professionally insulated for guaranteed protection. Insulation helps to regulate the temperatures of your pipes to ensure that they never get cold enough to freeze. Insulation may be especially helpful for older homes that are less efficient at regulating heat. If using insulation, we advise to protect yourself and wear coveralls, gloves, and a dust mask.
Keep Your Thermostat On
Protecting your outdoor pipes this winter will also save you money and headaches. You may be considered about wintertime heating bills, but keeping your thermostat on throughout the season will keep your home warm enough to prevent your pipes from freezing. If you’re going out for the day, turn your thermostat down but not all the way off—this way, you’ll save money on excessive heating costs without letting your home get cold enough for the pipes to freeze. If you’re going on vacation this winter, have someone visit your house every few days to run the faucets and ensure the pipes haven’t frozen in your absence.
Flood and leaks from freezing pipes can be some of the most devastating plumbing disasters to happen to any home. Luckily, with a few simple tricks, it’s easy to prevent this from happening.
Dealing with Frozen Pipes
Often even the most prepared homeowners have to deal with frozen pipes. If this happens to you, don’t panic. Apply heat directly to the frozen pipe, using a space heater, hairdryer, or warm towel. Opening cabinet doors, such as in kitchens and bathrooms, will get warm air circulating and can help thaw a frozen pipe. Whatever you do, NEVER use an open flame to try and thaw pipes. This is a fire hazard, not to mention extremely dangerous.
Call The Professionals
If nothing works and you can't face the bull itself, call CPR24 Restoration, at +1 416-551-8287 ! We have the right experience and the last technology equipment to help you.
Blerina Laska