Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Frozen pipe

Our long, cold and dreary Winter months lead to many emergency water losses caused by frozen pipes that burst. As a general rule of thumb, in order for your home's water pipes to freeze, the outside temperature needs to be below 20 degrees, for a total of at least six consecutive hours. The following are some helpful tips to help combat the cold this winter:

1. Keep Water Faucets Running
If it is extremely cold outside, always keep one or two faucets running, very slowly. Water moving through the system should prevent the line from freezing.

2. Disconnect Your Hose From The Outside Faucet
Be sure to disconnect your hose from the outside faucet. If you leave your hose connected, water is not able to drain out of your hose bib which can cause it to break.

3. Install Heat Tape
Heat tape is a great tool to use when it is extremely cold. Homeowners can install this tape themselves and it will warm pipes as needed during cold weather.

4. Seal Leaks That Allow Cold Air Into Your Home
Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes. Use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out. With severe cold, even a tiny opening can let in enough cold air to cause a pipe to freeze in your home.

5. Check Your Home's Temperature
Prevent temperatures from dropping below 32 degrees in any area of your home where water lines are located.

The certified water restoration technicians at SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha are help to help you with all of your emergency water damage needs. Call (262)542-0900 and speak with a trained professional who can help!