The 7 Best Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Winter

Categories: Plumbing
Frozen pipes with an icicle hanging off it.

As a homeowner, one of the last repairs you want to deal with is frozen pipes and pipe bursts. That’s because pipe replacement is extremely time-consuming and expensive to fix. To help you prevent this problem, Heiden Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is sharing helpful tips in this month’s blog. Be sure to follow them to keep your water flowing and your pipes intact all winter long. However, should you experience a pipe burst or any other plumbing-related issues, we’re standing by to help, even in an emergency. Call us at 414-937-8420.

1. Don’t Let Your Home Get Too Cold

If you aren’t home or are gone on vacation, it might be tempting to turn your heat completely off to save money. But that’s the last thing you want to do. That’s because if the water in your pipes freezes, you could have a pipe burst. While you can turn your heat down significantly while away, be sure to keep the temperature set to no less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Use Your Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat is a great way to monitor and control your home’s temperature remotely and prevent frozen pipes. Your device may even have an alert system to let you know if temperatures are approaching freezing.

3. Allow Faucets to Drip

Leave your faucets on ever so slightly whenever you plan to be away for an extended period of time. This will help the water to keep flowing and prevent frozen pipes and possible pipe bursts.

4. Insulate Your Pipes

Installing insulation around your exposed pipes can help keep them warm. Or, instead of installation, you can also use heat tape or foam pipe sleeves to lock in added warmth.

5. Open Your Cabinets

Before leaving, open cabinets containing piping (such as those below your kitchen sink) to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing to prevent freezing.

6. Shut Off Water

If you have a lake home or other type of cabin that you don’t use in winter, the best way to prevent frozen pipes is to turn the water off and drain the pipes completely.

7. Drain Hoses and Outdoor Faucets

Your outdoor faucets can be overlooked once winter hits, but don’t forget to remove any hoses and drain faucets to prevent freezing.

Trust Heiden Plumbing for Advice

In need of plumbing repair or more troubleshooting tips? Contact Heiden Plumbing for more assistance. Our experts are ready to help you with your plumbing concerns. Call us at 414-937-8420 or contact us online.