6 Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Your Home This Winter
As temperatures drop in Indianapolis, homeowners face the risk of frozen pipes, which can lead to costly repairs, not to mention inconvenience during a busy season. Fear not! The plumbers at Mister Water Heater are here to help. Here are six practical things you can do to prevent frozen pipes, as well as our plumbers’ advice on what to do if they freeze.
Ideas to Prevent Frozen Pipes
1. Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperature
During freezing temperatures, it’s important to keep a consistent indoor temperature. Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees to ensure warmth throughout your home. This will help prevent pipes from freezing and save energy in the process.
2. Let Your Faucet Drip
Moving water is less likely to freeze, so running a small trickle of cold water in the farthest faucet from your main valve can help prevent pipes from freezing. It may seem counterintuitive, but this simple act can be a game-changer when it comes to pipe protection.
3. Seal Air Leaks
Inspect your home for areas where cold air could come in, like basic cracks or openings. Check both interior and exterior walls and pay extra attention to the sill plates, where your home rests on its foundation. Don’t forget about your garage; leaving it open for extended periods is like creating a giant air leak. Always keep the door closed unless you’re coming or going.
4. Insulate Pipes
Pipes located in unheated areas, such as basements, garages, and crawl spaces, are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Insulating these pipes with materials like pipe sleeves or heat tape can provide an added layer of protection. Remember, an investment in insulation now can save you from costly repairs in the future.
5. Open Cupboards to Warm Pipes
During extreme cold spells, open cupboards and vanities that contain plumbing fixtures, such as those in the kitchen and bathrooms. This allows warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes and helps prevent freezing. Don’t forget to remove any harmful chemicals or cleaners from children’s or pets’ easy reach.
6. Find Shut Off Valves for Emergencies
In case of emergencies, it’s important to know where your shut-off valves are located. Familiarize yourself with the main shut-off valve for your home’s water supply, as well as any other shut-off valves specific to individual fixtures. This knowledge will help you act quickly and minimize potential damage if a pipe does burst.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you suspect that a pipe is frozen, the first step is to turn on the faucet. If only a small amount of water drips or trickles out, it’s likely that there’s ice blocking the pipe. Carefully examine the exposed pipe for any cracks or breaks.
If You Discover Burst Pipes:
1. Immediately turn off your house’s main water supply.
Locate and turn off the main shut-off valve for your home’s water supply. This will stop the water flow and prevent further damage.
2. Call a licensed plumber right away.
It is best to seek the assistance of a professional plumber to thaw a burst pipe. Attempting to do it yourself can lead to water flooding your home. A licensed plumber can safely and efficiently address the issue.
If Your Pipes Are Not Burst or Damaged:
1. Open the faucet to enable water to flow as the ice thaws.
2. Apply gentle heat to the frozen portion of the pipe.
- Options include using a heating pad, hairdryer, space heater, or warm, damp towels.
- Avoid using open flames to prevent fire hazards and pipe damage.
3. If you cannot safely access or thaw the pipe, call a plumber right away.
Preventing frozen pipes can help you avoid the headaches and financial burdens that come when they burst. Remember, if you ever encounter frozen pipes and need an expert plumber for your Indianapolis area home, Mister Water Heater is just a phone call away. We also offer water heater installation and repair services. Contact us at (833) 270-8502 or request service online today, and we can help you protect your home and keep your plumbing running smoothly all winter long.