Harsh winter conditions are already upon us. Homeowners need to be vigilant during periods of cold weather, especially when the power goes out, either due to downed power lines or lapses in the power grid. While power failures can make for uncomfortable conditions, one of the worst problems that can manifest during these times are frozen pipes. It’s important to review your procedures for protecting your pipes every winter, so let’s go through your processes and see if you’re as vigilant as you should be about your pipes.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Problem
When water freezes, it expands. That’s why water in pipes can break them. When that happens, your home can be flooded and your home and property potentially ruined. What’s more, the pipes have to be replaced. Thus, it’s an expensive proposition all the way around. You obviously want to ensure that your insurance covers this type of flooding.
It’s also best to prevent frozen pipes in the first place. See how well your cautionary measures stack up against these:
- Drain swimming pool and water-sprinkler supply lines. (Never use antifreeze in these lines, as it’s dangerous to all living creatures, as well as to landscaping.)
- Remove and drain water hoses. Stow them in the garage. Close valves that supply outdoor hose bibs and drain the bib by turning on the faucet a bit. Keep it on. Or, use a cover over the hose bibs.
- Keep the thermostat settings the same at night as they are during the day so indoor pipes don’t freeze. Leave cabinet doors open where there are pipes against an exterior wall.
- Wrap pipes in areas where they might freeze, such as a basement or attic, with insulation or heat tape.
- If you have to go away during cold weather, have someone check on your house to make sure the heating is working properly and that there are no plumbing leaks. Or, install a Wi-Fi system, which can alert you if there is something wrong with the HVAC.
For more on frozen pipes, contact Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. We serve Lorain and the surrounding area.
