Homeowner tips to keep your pipes from bursting in the cold weather
PHILADELPHIA, PA, December 06, 2019 /Neptune100/ — Your pipes which are installed or fitted for water supply throughout your home must be adequately maintained for optimal performance. Obviously, severe winter temperatures can lead to freezing of your pipes, it doesn’t mean that pipe freezing will occur only in a cold climate. Water pipes will burst as soon as the cold spell is over if they are not adequately insulated to protect them from frigid temperatures. While severe cold weather causes a very high risk to the pipes, the pipelines that are outdoors or the pipes that pass-through areas that are not protected are also more prone to freezing and bursting. When compared to drainpipes, water supply pipes are more likely to freeze because of their smaller diameter as well as the sustained pressure inside the pipes. It is very important to properly maintain the water supply pipes in order to effectively prevent freezing of the pipes and avoid possible water damage to your home. Here are some useful tips to keep your pipes from freezing this winter.
Ensure the Pipes are Properly Insulated
Insulating your water pipes is not expensive and can save you money in the end. Pipes may be insulated at the time of installing them, make sure you use good quality pipe insulation made of foam, fiberglass or polyethylene. Extra care is required for the pipes that are fitted in the basement, attic and garage.
Leave the Faucets Running
When the faucet is kept dripping, the pipes will not freeze. Since running water maintains the movement inside the pipes, freezing will not occur as easily as in the case of standing water. However, all the faucets in the house do not need to be turned on. By keeping just a few faucets running, formation of ice blocks inside the pipes can be prevented.
Set the Thermostat at the Same Temperature
In order to reduce heating expenses, many people set the thermostat at a lower temperature in the evening. But this may facilitate freezing of the pipes and ultimately the pipes will burst causing heavy expenses to repair them. It is advisable to always set the thermostat at the same temperature.
Check and Seal all Cracks, Holes and Openings Around Windows, Door frames, Walls and Floors
Prior to winter, you should thoroughly inspect all windows, door frames and floors, as well as interior walls. Make sure you seal all types of openings and cracks that you may find, this will prevent the freezing of your water pipes and you can avoid costly repairs if they burst. When all the openings are sealed, the air inside your home remains warm and thereby provides the house with better air flow and insulation.
When You Are Away, Leave the Heat On
Make sure whenever you go out of your home during the winter, that your heater remains on. By keeping it at a lower temperature, you can avoid higher energy bills and at the same time avoid pipe freezing.
Keep the Interior Doors Open
In most homes, there is uneven distribution of warm air. Warm air can be made to spread evenly inside the home by keeping all interior doors open. When warm air is circulated from room to room your pipes are protected from the elements.
Performing these steps greatly impacts the damage that could occur to a home in the event of a burst pipe caused by freezing temperatures. By following the information listed above, homeowners decrease the risk of water damage in their homes.
After a loss, please contact American Claims Ensurance and schedule a free consultation. Call toll free at 1-800-204-2463 or visit their website at https://acepublicadjusters.com/
About American Claims Ensurance
American Claims Ensurance is a property loss consulting firm headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. Additional offices are located throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Florida, Delaware, Virginia, and North Carolina. American Claims Ensurance specializes in homeowners and business insurance claim representation. We work vigorously and for you to ensure you get the maximum possible settlement from the insurance company.