Winter can be a challenging time for plumbing fixtures
Winter can be a challenging time for plumbing fixtures, as freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst and cause significant damage to your home. In this article, we’ll discuss the key challenges for plumbing fixtures in winter, the different plumbing fixtures that are affected by freezing temperatures, and how to prevent plumbing from freezing.
Key challenges for plumbing fixtures in winter
- Freezing temperatures: When the temperature drops below freezing, the water inside pipes can freeze and expand, causing the pipes to burst.
- Lack of insulation: Pipes that are located in unheated areas of the home, such as the attic or crawl space, are more susceptible to freezing.
- Wind chill: Cold winds can cause the temperature around pipes to drop even lower, increasing the risk of freezing.
Plumbing fixtures affected by freezing temperatures
Pipes
Pipes are the most common plumbing fixtures affected by freezing temperatures. They can be found in a variety of areas in the home, including the attic, crawl space, and exterior walls.
Faucets
Outdoor faucets are also vulnerable to freezing temperatures. If the water inside the faucet or the pipes connected to it freeze, it can cause the faucet to burst.
Toilets
Toilets can also be affected by freezing temperatures, as the water supply line leading to the toilet can freeze and burst.
Sump pumps
Sump pumps can freeze in cold weather, which can cause them to stop working and lead to water damage in the home.
How to Prevent Plumbing from Freezing?
Plumbing can freeze when the temperature drops below freezing, causing pipes to burst and resulting in costly damage. To prevent plumbing from freezing, there are a few steps you can take:
Insulate pipes
Insulating pipes in unheated areas such as the attic, garage, and crawl spaces can help to keep them warm and prevent freezing. You can use foam pipe insulation, which can be found at most hardware stores.
Seal leaks and cracks
Seal any leaks or cracks in the walls or foundation of your home to prevent cold air from entering and freezing the pipes.
Keep the heat on
Keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are away from home or on vacation.
Open cabinet doors
Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes that may be located inside.
Let the faucet drip
When the temperature outside is extremely cold, let the faucet drip a little, it will help to keep the water moving through the pipes and prevent freezing.
Disconnect hoses
Disconnect and drain any outdoor hoses, and shut off the valves that supply water to outdoor faucets.
Use a pipe heating cable
If you live in an area where freezing temperatures are common, you can use a pipe heating cable to keep the water flowing through the pipes. These cables can be wrapped around pipes and plugged into an outlet to provide heat.
Electric heating tape
Another way to prevent plumbing from freezing is to use an electric heating tape or a pipe heating cable. This type of equipment is made of a heating element that is wrapped around the pipe. It can be plugged into an electrical outlet, and it will produce enough heat to keep the pipes from freezing.
Insulation jacket
You can also install a pipe insulation jacket around pipes that are exposed to the cold. This can be made from materials such as fiberglass, foam, or rubber, and it will help to keep the pipes warm by slowing down the heat loss.
Attic Insulation
Another tip is to make sure that your attic and crawl spaces are properly insulated and ventilated. This will help to prevent the cold air from entering the house and freezing the pipes.
Smart Thermostat
If you are planning to be away from home during a cold snap, it’s a good idea to have someone check on your home regularly, or to install a smart thermostat that can be controlled remotely. This way you can ensure that the heat is kept on and that the pipes are not freezing.
Have Emergency Numbers Handy
Finally, it’s always a good idea to have an emergency plumber’s number handy in case of a pipe burst. It’s also a good idea to have your insurance company’s contact information on hand so that you can report any damage to your home quickly.
I hope these Tips (How to Prevent Plumbing from Freezing?) have helped you make the right decision. If you have any questions, feel free to send us your comments below or on our Facebook page.
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See also: Beginners Guide to Choosing Shower Heads
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