Tips for Avoiding Frozen Pipes
Winters in this part of the country can be very harsh, with temperatures well below freezing and snow piled high. While most people here understand the importance of a heavy winter coat and boots or preparing cars for cold weather, they may not think their pipes need to be protected against frigid temperatures. This article will cover the reasons for winterizing pipes and how it is done.
What's So Dangerous About Frozen Pipes?
It may seem that it is blowing things out of proportion to say there is danger in frozen pipes. Perhaps it seems one should use the word "inconvenience" instead, but the truth is that frozen pipes are dangerous. The biggest problem that freezing water pipes can lead to is burst pipes. Water expands as it freezes, putting extra pressure on and often bursting pipes. This can lead to collateral damage to the home, including damage to the walls and foundation of the house and damage to the water heater or other appliances that require water to function.
What Is Pipe Insulation and What Does It Do?
As the name suggests, pipe insulation is a pipe covering that protects pipes against extreme temperature changes and helps the water in the pipes maintain temperature. The most frequently used pipe insulation is called foam pipe insulation. It is the shape of a pool noodle, split down the side with a hole for the pipe in the middle. Foam pipe insulation is sold according to the size of the pipe it insulates. This flexible material is wrapped around the pipe like a hot dog bun and is taped with special tape similar to duct tape. One should do this to the vulnerable, exposed pipes in unfinished basements and along exterior walls. Preventing freezing is not the only reason to insulate pipe insulation; the list below has a few others:
- Protects pipe against exterior corrosion
- Helps water heater efficiency by helping maintain the water temperature
- Can help save money on utility bills
Practical Prevention of Frozen Pipes
Even if a homeowner can't schedule winterizing for their pipes, there are practical measures they can take to help prevent their pipes from freezing. Below are listed a few quick tips for keeping the water flowing during the coldest times of the year:
- Let the Faucet Drip: Opening the faucet valves on sinks and tubs helps prevent freezing pipes because it is harder for running water to freeze.
- Open Cabinet Doors: Opening cabinet and vanity doors help let warm air circulate around the pipes, assisting in freeze prevention.
- Use Space Heaters: Direct a small space heater toward the pipes that have the potential to freeze. This will heat not only the area around the pipes but also the pipes and the water.
About B & D Plumbing, Heating & A/C
Whether it's backflow or frozen pipe repair, B&D Plumbing, Heating & A/C is there for their St Michael, MN customers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call them today for reliable service and upfront pricing in St. Michael and the surrounding areas.
