Tips to Avoid Frozen Pipes

During winter, homeowners face the dreaded possibility of frozen pipes. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands, leading to cracks or bursts, causing significant damage and inconvenience. By implementing preventive measures and taking prompt action, you can reduce the risk of frozen pipes or effectively manage the situation should it arise. 

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes 

Use the following tips to prevent frozen pipes: 

1. Insulate your pipes. Insulation sleeves or wrapping materials can be easily found at hardware stores and are simple to install. Concentrate on insulating pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces and attics. Additionally, insulate outdoor pipes and faucets using specialized outdoor insulation products. 

1. Maintain adequate heat. Keep the temperature inside your home consistent, especially during cold snaps. Set your thermostat to at least 55 F even when you’re away to ensure the interior remains warm enough to prevent freezing. Pay particular attention to rooms with exposed pipes or those located far from the central heating source. 

1. Seal leaks and drafts. Inspect your home for any air leaks or drafts, especially around windows, doors and utility openings. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps or cracks, preventing cold air from entering your home and chilling the pipes. 

1. Let faucets drip. During extremely cold nights, permit faucets attached to exposed pipes to drip at a slow rate. This steady flow of water, even at a trickle, can aid in preventing pipes from freezing by alleviating pressure within the system. 

1. Open cabinet doors. In kitchen and bathroom areas, where pipes are frequently situated against exterior walls, open cabinet doors to facilitate the circulation of warm air around the pipes. This can help maintain higher temperatures and prevent freezing. 

1. Drain and disconnect outdoor hoses. Before freezing temperatures set in, disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses. Shut off outdoor water valves, and if possible, install insulated covers over outdoor faucets to protect them from the cold. 

1. Act promptly if pipes freeze. Despite your best efforts, pipes may still freeze. Take the following actions if you suspect a frozen pipe: 

• Keep the impacted faucet open to alleviate pressure and enable water to flow once the pipe thaws. 
• Apply gentle heat to the frozen section using a hair dryer, heat lamp or electric heating pad. Never use an open flame or high-heat device. 
• Start heating the pipe as close to the faucet as possible and work your way toward the blockage. 
• If you cannot locate the frozen section or if the situation escalates, contact a licensed plumber immediately. 

Homeowners Insurance in Denver 

Frozen pipes pose a significant threat to homes during the winter months, but with proper preparation and swift action, you can minimize the likelihood of damage. Contact JJ Insurance today for a homeowners insurance quote to ensure you are financially protected against frozen pipe incidents. 

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.