How To Prevent Pipes From Freezing

Posted: January 17, 2022

Tips to Avoid Serious Water Damage in Your Home

While we haven’t seen anything close to extreme cold yet, we all know it’s coming at some point. One of the biggest worries during times of frigid temperatures is a lack of heat—and the ensuing risk of water pipes freezing.

Frozen Pipe Prevention

When a pipe freezes, it’s at risk to burst, and a burst pipe can cause you a lot of trouble and money. With that in mind, here are some tips to help you avoid this stressful situation.

• If you plan to be away from home in winter, leave your thermostat setting no lower than 60° F.
• If you haven’t already done so, turn off the water supply to your outdoor spigot, and leave the outdoor valve in the open position so any water left in the pipe drains. With no water left in the lines, you can be confident that ice will not collect.

  Several cost-effective items can reduce your risk of freezing pipes, including frost-free spigots and outdoor valve covers. These products are available at most home improvement retailer.

• Caulk or plug holes that allow cold air near water lines.
• Open kitchen cabinet doors to allow heat into areas where water pipes may be located.
• Check in and around your home for water lines in colder or unheated areas. Insulate both cold and hot water lines in areas such as your garage, crawl spaces, and your attic. Consider electric heat tape or a heated cable if the area stays cold and can’t be easily warmed up.
• If the cold weather is severe or sustained, allow small trickle or warm and cold water through the faucet.

What to Do if Your Pipes Do Freeze

• Leave the water faucet slightly open.
• Use a space heater or a hairdryer to thaw the frozen section of the pipe. Never use a device with an open flame!
• Keep the area as warm as possible, or wrap pipes with thermostatically controlled heat tape to keep pipes from freezing again.
• If you see any water coming from the pipe, call a plumber immediately.

Everyone here at Wilson Oil and Propane is committed to your comfort; please contact us if there is anything we can do to help you stay safe and warm this winter.

Founded in 1926, Wilson Oil and Propane strives to provide excellent service to our customers every single day. In addition to prompt, professional expert HVAC services, heating oil and propane delivery, we offer our customers many ways to lower their energy costs and enhance their comfort. Become a customer today.