If you live in the Midwest, you know the toll winter weather conditions take on your home inside and out. Once the temperatures drop below freezing, one of the biggest concerns for homeowners is frozen pipes. They can quickly cause a major headache, especially if your pipes burst. That’s not only an inconvenience to you, but can be stressful to deal with. In this blog, we’re highlighting why frozen pipes are dangerous and what you can do to prevent anything from happening this winter. 

 

Why pipes freeze 

Once your pipes are exposed to freezing temperatures for an extended period of time, they become vulnerable to freezing. When water inside the pipe begins to freeze, it expands, creating mounting pressure that can cause the pipe to crack or burst. 

Once a pipe bursts, the water damage can quickly lead to mold growth, structural damage, and costly repairs. Knowing why will help you stay one step ahead of the harsh Midwest winter.

 

Tips to prevent your pipes from freezing

Taking preventive steps before winter sets in can help you avoid these risks. Here are a few simple ways to protect your plumbing and prevent frozen pipes this season.

 

Keep your indoor temperature consistent 

Keeping your home warm makes it less likely that your pipes will freeze and cause costly damage when you least expect it, especially in areas that are not well-insulated. One way to prevent this is by keeping your indoor temperature consistent. 

If you keep your thermostat settings too low, warm air won’t circulate through your home, harming your pipes. When your thermostat drops below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, it increases your risk of frozen pipes. That’s why it’s best to keep your heat running at a steady temperature, even when you’re asleep or away from home. 

 

Let your kitchen and bathroom faucets drip

Keeping the water flowing is key to keeping your pipes from freezing or bursting. Moving water does not freeze, so allowing a slow trickle of water reduces pressure from building up or from ice forming inside your pipes. Let the water run from both the hot and cold taps in areas like your basement or under your sink. It’s one simple step you can take to prevent a major headache. 

 

Open your cabinet doors under your sinks 

On the same note, while you let the water slowly drip from your kitchen or bathroom faucet, you should also keep the cabinets under your sink open. Allowing warm air from your home to circulate into the cold, enclosed space helps keep your pipes warm enough to prevent freezing. Even a small amount of airflow can make a big difference when the cold weather moves in. 

 

Winterize your hose bibs

Spending a little time now to prepare your outdoor faucets can save you from a big headache later. Once you remove the hose, drain out any remaining water and shut off the water supply to the hose bib so nothing gets trapped inside and freezes. It’s a simple step that can save you from dealing with costly repairs or burst pipes.

 

Have a professional plumber insulate and seal your pipes 

Some of the pipes in your home may not be properly insulated, leaving them vulnerable to freezing during cold snaps. You may find these pipes in areas such as:

• Garages
• Basements
• Exterior walls
• Hose bibs and outdoor faucets
• Under sinks

Having a professional plumbing company like Black Diamond Plumbing & Mechanical inspect your plumbing system can help identify areas with insufficient insulation or cracks before they lead to bigger problems. A plumber can professionally install pipe insulation, seal leaks, and ensure your pipes are protected from the harsh winter cold. 

 

Black Diamond Plumbing & Mechanical is here to help you prevent frozen pipes this winter! 

At Black Diamond Plumbing & Mechanical, we know how overwhelming it can be trying to prepare your home for winter. With our help, you can have peace of mind knowing your plumbing system is working efficiently and minimizing your risk of frozen pipes. 

If your pipes do freeze, we can help with any plumbing emergency at any time of day. We’re fully staffed 24/7 with a supportive and caring customer service team ready to take your call for emergency plumbing services. Whether you need minor plumbing repairs, help thawing a frozen pipe, or a plumbing inspection, we’re there when you need us. 

So call us today at 815-444-0979 to schedule your next appointment with us.