The winter season is right around the corner. Frozen pipes can be an unfortunate part of the winter season. They not only cause a lack of water, but can result in costly damage if they burst. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing. These tips can help you avoid burst pipes this upcoming winter season.
Open Your Kitchen/Bathroom Cabinets
The easiest way to prevent frozen pipes is to keep your kitchen and bathroom cabinets open when temperatures are expected to drop. Pipes can freeze at temperatures of 20 degrees Fahrenheit. By opening your cabinet doors, you’re giving warm air a chance to circulate around the pipes, which will help keep them warm.
Allow Your Faucets to Drip Water
When you leave your faucets dripping, you’re constantly forcing the water inside the pipes to move. The more it moves, the less chance there is of freezing. You don’t have to drip a large amount of water, either. A trickle will still get the job done (and not run your water bill up a crazy amount, either).
Keep Your Thermostat at the Same Temperature All Day
While you might think lowering the thermostat when you leave your house is a good way to conserve money, it can cost you more in the long run if your pipes freeze and burst. To prevent frozen pipes, leave your thermostat at the same temperature all day. Never let it get below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even if you leave the house for work, errands, or vacation.
Drain Water From Your Pipes
Another common way to prevent frozen pipes is by draining water from pipes that easily freeze, such as your yard’s sprinkler, swimming pool, and other water supply lines.
Properly Seal Your Doors and Windows
An easy way to prevent frozen pipes is by making sure your doors and windows are properly sealed. If there are any cracks around these areas, use a sealant to cover them up. Most sealants are designed to be water-resistant, so even if a water leak does occur, you have the added benefit of not suffering any additional damage around your doors or windows.
If you’re sealing your doors and windows, it’s recommended to use a sealant rather than caulk because caulk tends to shrink.
Contact the Pros at Green Genie Environmental if Your Home Suffers Water Damage From a Burst Pipe
If your pipes freeze this winter season, don’t wait to call the pros at Green Genie Environmental. Our technicians are trained in every aspect of the water damage restoration process caused by burst pipes. At Green Genie Environmental, we only use eco-friendly methods of restoring and disinfecting your home after water damage.
If your home suffers a burst pipe caused by freezing weather, call us to schedule an appointment. We can be reached at (716) 466-6653. Our services are available 24/7, so you can count on us if you experience an emergency.