It’s finally October which means temperatures are going to start getting lower and lower. Now is the time to prepare you for the freezing temperatures to come! The temperature threshold for freezing pipes is 20 degrees F. Water freezes when heat in the water is transferred to subfreezing air. The best way to keep pipes from freezing is to slow or stop the transfer of heat. Here are great tips to keep in mind for this winter to come.
- Vulnerable pipes that are accessible should be fitted with insulation sleeves or wrapping. This will slow the heat transfer. You can find these at any hardware store, but we suggest spending a little more for the extra thick insulation that can be found at a plumbing supply store.
- Any cracks or holes in an outside wall and foundation near water pipes should be filled with caulking.
- Keep cabinet doors open that have water pipes inside. This lets warm air circulate around the pipes.
- Letting a faucet drip slowly can prevent a burst in pipe, but not the water inside the pipe from freezing. The small flow relieves the excessive pressure between the ice blockage and faucet.
- Going on a trip? Be careful how much you lower the temperature. Also, you can drain the water system. If there is no water in the pipes then they cannot freeze. Do this by turning off the main valve and turning on all water fixtures (hot and cold lines) until no more water comes out.
If no water comes out of the faucet after turning it on then don’t wait! Call a plumber. If a pipe DOES burst then turn off the water at the main shut off valve. This is usually located near the water meter or where the main line enters the building. If in case a pipe does burst please do not hesitate to call us at Warren Restoration!! We of course are here for you when things like this happen!