Tips to Avoid Frozen Pipes

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

Broken Water Pipe

Winter is Just Getting Over With but Pipes Still Break

Whatever part of Ohio you are in, most people are experiencing very cold or freezing temperatures this time of year. Everyone wonders what needs to be done to protect their pipes in freezing temperatures. It is important to protect your pipes and your plumbing system in cold weather. It is especially important if you plan to be away from home for long periods of time.  

On the inside: If you will be away from home for days at a time, make sure that all of your pipes are kept warm, especially in spaces that receive little or no heat. If any pipes will stay exposed to freezing temperatures, open up one faucet with a very small drip to keep water moving through the pipes.  
On the outside: Protect your pipes as you would protect your plants. Cover up your outside faucets with foam or towels to insulate them.

Especially if you plan to be away from home this winter, remember to leave your contact information with a neighbor. You might consider giving them a key to your home, too, and leaving your preferred plumber's contact information behind should an emergency occur.  

Wondering what happens if pipes freeze? When water freezes in a pipe, it expands the same way a soda can would. If it expands enough, the pipe bursts and could result in serious damage. Pipes and valves on outside walls or in the attics are the most common trouble spots. If you open a faucet and water does not come out, you may be dealing with a frozen pipe.