Halt Frozen Pipes and Prevent Subzero Ruin!
With the temperature dropping below freezing around the country, it’s important to be prepared for the cooler weather’s effect on your water pipes. Pipes freeze for a combination of three central reasons: quick drops in temperature, poor insulation, and thermostats set too low. Both plastic and copper pipes can burst when they freeze, and recovering from frozen and burst pipes is not always as simple as calling a plumber out.
Unlike natural disasters, this disaster is largely preventable. With a few simple steps, you can save yourself the mess, money, and headache that frozen pipes cause.
Take preventative action:
- Allow cooling water to drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe helps prevent pipes from freezing.
- Seal any gaps around the property where cold air may penetrate and become in contact with piping. Even the tiniest opening can let in enough cold air to cause a pipe to freeze.
- Insulate exterior pipes.
- Drain water from sprinklers and hoses.
- Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during the day and night.
Handle frozen pipes:
- Turn off the property’s main water value and leave the faucets open until pipes thaw!
- Do not apply an open flame, electronic heaters, or hair dryers directly to the piping! Patience and a warm environment are the best way to thaw pipes without causing damage.
- When turning the main water valve back on, have one person slowly turn the valve on while another person walks on the property to be sure that no water is leaking.
Even with the best will in the world, if your pipes freeze, you should know how to manage the situation to minimize the risk of damage. To help protect your home and belongings from damage, secure your homeowners insurance in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin today! Talk to the team at Unisource Insurance Associates to get started.