CULLMAN, Ala. – While the promise of snow and freezing temps may sound like a dream to some, others are aware of the lurking potential disasters that icy weather can bring. When the temperature stays at or below freezing for a significant period of time, the chances that pipes could freeze and burst are exponentially higher.
Justin Barbee, owner and Master Plumber at Premier Plumbing, explained, “As winter temperatures plummet, safeguarding your home against frozen pipes becomes paramount. By incorporating these measures into your winter preparations, you can protect your home against a hard freeze and ensure your plumbing remains safe.”
1. Insulate exposed pipes: Shield pipes with insulation or wraps to prevent exposure to freezing air and winds. Foam insulation wraps are an inexpensive way to protect your plumbing and pipes quickly and efficiently.
2. Seal cracks and leaks: Inspect and seal any gaps in walls, windows or foundations to keep out cold drafts. Spray-expanding foam, tape or even pieces of folded or torn fabric can prevent icy wind from seeping into a residential space.
3. Disconnect and drain hoses: Store hoses indoors after draining to avoid frozen water in the pipes. Disconnecting and draining any outdoor water hoses or water fixtures and storing them in a temperature-controlled environment ensures that any residual water cannot freeze and damage the hoses.
4. Faucet covers: Install faucet covers on outdoor faucets to add an extra layer of protection. Faucet covers can be purchased at many big box or home improvement stores, making them an easy safeguard to grab and go in the event of a sudden freeze.
5. Open interior doors: Allow warm air to circulate freely by keeping interior doors open. Allowing air to circulate freely through the home eliminates dead spots from becoming too cold.
6. Let faucets drip: Maintain a slow drip from faucets to relieve pressure and prevent freezing. When water freezes, it expands. By allowing faucets to drip, it allows the extra space for frozen water to expand.
7. Consistent thermostat settings: Keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature, day and night.
8. Open cabinet doors: Ensure warm air reaches pipes under sinks by opening cabinet doors.
9. Insulate attic and crawl spaces: Upgrade insulation to maintain warmer environments in vulnerable areas. Cover open vents or holes to stop cold air from entering. Warm air rises; with a poorly insulated attic or crawl space, the heat from the home is lost shortly after it reaches the attic. A poorly insulated crawl space could lead to frigid temps under the home, directly in line with the home’s plumbing.
10. Know your main water shut-off valve: Familiarize yourself with the location of the main (any) shut-off valves for quick response in emergencies.
11. Pipe heating cables: Install heating cables on exposed pipes for added protection against freezing. While this is one of the more expensive tips, it is useful, nonetheless. Heating cables for plumbing and pipes virtually eliminate the issue of frozen water lines.
12. Schedule plumbing check-up: Have a professional inspect your plumbing system before winter sets in. Preventative measures and regular maintenance are key to the health of your plumbing system.
13. Cover outdoor exposed pipes: Use insulated wraps or materials specifically designed for outdoor pipes.
14. Install smart leak detectors: Technology with smart leak detectors that provide real-time alerts. When a pipe breaks due to a freeze, it may not be noticed immediately. A smart leak detector could alert a homeowner in real time about a potential leak, saving headaches and hundreds of dollars.
15. Monitor weather forecasts: Stay prepared by monitoring weather forecasts to anticipate freezing conditions and take timely preventive measures. Perhaps the most useful tip is to stay weather aware, taking any precautions that are felt to be necessary.
Premier Plumbing is located in Cullman County and can be reached at 256-507-9907.
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