Winter in North Carolina can bring chilly temperatures and the possibility of freezing pipes. In recent years North Carolina residents have experienced an increase in frozen water pipes. To help safeguard your home, here are some simple, yet effective steps:
Winter Plumbing Protection Checklist:
1. Disconnect Garden Hoses
One of the easiest ways to prevent your outdoor faucets from freezing is by disconnecting your garden hoses. Leaving hoses attached can cause water to back up in the faucets and pipes inside your home, potentially creating an ice block that can burst the pipe.
2. Turn Off Water to Outside Faucets
If you have shut-off valves for your exterior faucets, use them. Once you've shut off the water, open the outside faucet to let any remaining water drain out. This step ensures that no water remains in the pipe that could freeze and expand.
3. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes located in unheated areas like an attic, basement, or crawl space are more susceptible to freezing. Use pipe insulation to cover exposed pipes and help protect them from the cold.
4. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Inspect your home for any gaps or cracks that could allow cold air to reach your pipes. Sealing these openings with caulk or insulation can keep your pipes warmer and reduce the risk of freezing.
5. Keep a Steady Thermostat Setting
Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, day and night, even if you're away. A slight increase in your heating bill is cheaper than repair costs for burst pipes.
6. Let Faucets Drip
A slow, steady drip from faucets can help prevent freezing in extremely cold weather.
Focus on Vulnerable Pipes: Allow faucets connected to exposed or uninsulated pipes to drip slightly. This keeps water moving and reduces the risk of freezing.
Use Warm Water Drips: Warm water drips can help maintain a higher temperature in the pipes.
7. Invest in Smart Technology
Smart devices can offer extra protection during winter.
Smart Thermostats: Keep indoor temperatures consistent and monitor heating remotely.
Leak Detectors: Place leak detection sensors by vulnerable pipes to get alerts if freezing or leaks occur.
Automatic Shutoff Systems: Some systems can automatically shut off the water supply in case of a leak.
8. Professional Plumbing Inspection
While DIY measures are beneficial, a professional plumber can spot issues you might miss.
Annual Inspection: Schedule a plumbing inspection to address potential vulnerabilities.
Consider Upgrades: Ask about pipe upgrades, such as freeze-resistant pipes or additional insulation.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, pipes can still freeze. If this happens, don’t despair—you may be able to try these steps before calling a plumber:
Turn on the Faucet: Open the faucet that the frozen pipe supplies. This will relieve pressure and allow water to escape once it begins to thaw.
Warm the Pipes: Slowly apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad, hair dryer, or portable space heater. Do not use open flames! Always be cautious with electrical devices around standing water.
Keep the Faucet Open: As you apply heat, water will begin to flow. Keep the faucet open until a full stream is restored.
Check for Leaks: After the pipes have thawed, inspect them for any damage or leaks.
By taking these preventive measures and knowing what to do in the event of frozen pipes, you can help protect your home from winter's chill. Stay warm and safe this season!