5 Ways to Prevent Pipes From Freezing

If you’ve ever had a flooded basement due to a frozen pipe, you understand how critical it is to keep pipes from freezing. Even the best-insulated pipes can freeze in single digit and subzero temperatures. When temperatures fall below freezing, uninsulated pipes are at risk. When the pipe freezes, it builds pressure that causes fractures or breaks, and when the water thaws, it explodes from the freshly created crack, flooding your home. Unattended, a burst pipe can flood your basement and cost tens of thousands of dollars in damage to your property. The good news is that there are methods for protecting your pipes from freezing temperatures. You won’t have to worry about cracking, popping, bursting, or a flooded basement if you keep your pipes and the water in them above freezing. What are the top five things you can do to keep your pipes from freezing?

  1. Run the Heat

If the house is empty and you’ve turned off the heat to save money, now is the time to turn it back on. One of the greatest methods to keep temperatures high enough to prevent frozen pipes is to leave the heat on when the house is empty. Homes that are occupied full-time can keep the heat on as usual, though an extra degree or two when temperatures fall below zero won’t hurt. However, if you’re going on a winter vacation or if the house has no current residents, make sure the heat is kept at a minimum of 50 degrees during the colder months. This avoids freezing and ensures that you do not arrive home to a flooded basement.

  1. Drip the Faucet

Keeping the water in the pipes circulating decreases the risks of freezing. Allow a tiny trickle from any faucets connected to potentially troublesome pipes. This will not keep the pipe from freezing, but it will keep it from exploding since it lowers pressure.

  1. Open Cabinet Doors

If your house is like many others, you have pipes hidden beneath cabinets. When the temperature drops, open these cabinet doors to allow heat from your home to reach the pipes.

  1. Install Heating Tape

When temperatures drop, heating tape wraps around pipes and keeps them warm. You can choose between tape that automatically turns on and off and tape that connects into an electrical socket. This method works well for tiny pieces of pipe that are at high danger of freezing. A professional should install heating tape to ensure it is used safely and is not in contact with combustible materials.

  1. Increase Insulation

When it’s cold outside, insulation is your home’s best friend. If you have pipes in an area that isn’t very well insulated, it’s a good idea to add more insulation to keep them from freezing. To keep your vulnerable pipes warm, many forms of insulation can be fitted around them. An expert can advise you on the best type of insulation for your needs and ensure that it is correctly placed. Finally, keep in mind that residences in cold climates are not the only ones at risk of freezing. In reality, homes in warmer climates often lack the insulation needed to withstand the occasional cold snap. Regardless of where you live, it’s a good idea to have your pipes examined so you know they’re adequately protected and you don’t have to worry about freezing, bursting, or flooded basements. If you need further cold weather advice or need to speak with someone about a busted pipe or flooded basement, call Bedrock Restoration at 612-834-1501

How to Prepare A Vacant House For The Winter Months

One of the most important things you can do to prepare your home for the winter months is to winterize it. This means taking steps to protect your home from the cold weather and the potential damage that can come with it.

Turn off the main water supply to the home

If you have a second home, care for a vacant home, leave for an extended vacation, or just want to know how to avoid frozen pipes, then here are a few simple steps to winterizing a vacant home! This will protect your home from frozen pipes and potential water damage. If you’re not sure how to turn off the main water supply, your local water utility can provide instructions. It’s a good idea to label the shut-off valve so you’ll know where it is in case of an emergency.

Drain the pipes of all water

This will help prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting in the cold weather. There are a few simple steps you can take to drain the pipes:

  • Open all sink faucets
  • Open lowest sink in lowest level of the home
  • Open tub & shower faucets
  • Flush all toilets
  • Leave faucets in open position

This should help prevent any water from freezing in the pipes and causing damage. If you are unsure about how to drain the pipes or if there is a problem, contact a licensed contractor for assistance. When the cold weather starts to creep in, it’s important to take some precautions to protect your home. One such precaution is winterizing your plumbing. This involves pouring non-toxic antifreeze into your toilets and drains to prevent them from freezing up.

Pour non-toxic antifreeze into toilets and drains

Antifreeze is a great way to keep your plumbing functioning properly during the winter months. It’s nontoxic, so it’s safe for both you and your pets, and it’s easy to use. Just pour it into your toilets and drains, and you’re good to go!

Protect outside faucets and spigots using covering

One important step is to winterize your outside faucets and spigots. This can be done by using a covering to keep the water from freezing. There are a few different types of covers that you can use. One option is an insulated cover that fits over the faucet or spigot. This type of cover is made of foam and is designed to keep the water from freezing. Another option is a plastic cover. This type of cover is less expensive than the insulated cover, but it does not keep the water as warm. You can also use a heat tape to winterize your faucets and spigots. A heat tape is a piece of electrical wire that wraps around the faucet or spigot. The wire warms up and helps prevent the water from freezing. No matter which type of cover you choose, it’s important to make sure that it fits tightly over the faucet or spigot. If the cover is loose, it will not do its job in keeping the water from freezing.

Adjust the thermostat

Winterizing your home means adjusting the thermostat to save on your energy bill. One way to do this is to make sure your home is properly insulated. Installing a programmable thermostat can also help you save energy by adjusting the temperature to around 55 to 60 degrees. By making these small adjustments, you can save a lot of money on your energy bill this winter. Now that we’ve gone over some tips on how to prepare a vacant house for the winter months, it’s important to remember that these are just general guidelines. Every property is different and will require its own specific care and attention in order to protect it from the cold weather. If you’re not sure what to do or need more help preparing your property for winter, be sure to contact Bedrock Restoration at 612-834-1501. We will be able to give you tailored advice and assistance based on your individual needs and situation.