How to Keep Pipes from Freezing This Winter
Winter in Kansas City brings freezing temperatures, and with them comes the very real risk of frozen pipes. Knowing how to keep pipes from freezing can save you from expensive repairs and protect your home from water damage. At Pierpoint Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners winterize their plumbing systems and avoid the dangers of frozen pipes. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pipes safe and functioning all winter long.Why Do Pipes Freeze?
When temperatures drop below 32°F, the water inside pipes can freeze, causing it to expand. This expansion increases the pressure inside your pipes, which can result in cracks or bursts. Pipes in unheated areas, like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls, are most vulnerable. Frozen pipes don’t just mean no running water—they can lead to significant water damage if a pipe bursts. That’s why prevention is critical.How to Keep Pipes from Freezing
Follow these practical steps to ensure your pipes stay safe throughout the winter:1. Insulate Your Pipes
Pipe insulation is your first line of defense. Wrap exposed pipes in foam insulation sleeves or use heat tape for added protection. This is especially important for pipes in unheated areas like attics, basements, and crawl spaces.2. Keep Your Home Warm
Maintain a consistent indoor temperature of at least 55°F, even if you’re away. A warm home helps keep your plumbing system from freezing.3. Allow Faucets to Drip
A small trickle of water flowing through your pipes can prevent freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and it also relieves pressure in the pipes, which reduces the chance of a burst.4. Open Cabinet Doors
Allow warm air to circulate around pipes by opening under-sink cabinets, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms.5. Seal Drafts and Cracks
Check for drafts around windows, doors, and areas where pipes enter your home. Seal these gaps with caulk or insulation to keep cold air out.6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Remove and store garden hoses, and shut off water to exterior spigots. Use insulated covers to protect outdoor faucets.7. Install a Heating Cable
For extremely cold areas, consider installing heating cables or heat tape on vulnerable pipes. These devices keep pipes warm and prevent freezing even during deep freezes.What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you suspect a pipe has frozen, it’s important to act quickly to minimize damage:- Turn Off the Water Shut off the main water supply to reduce pressure on the frozen pipe and prevent flooding.
- Locate the Frozen Pipe Look for frost on the pipe or check areas with little to no water flow.
- Thaw the Pipe Gradually Use a hairdryer, space heater, or warm towels to thaw the pipe. Start near the faucet and work backward to avoid pressure buildup. Never use an open flame, as this can damage the pipe and create a fire hazard.
- Call a Professional If you can’t find the frozen pipe or suspect it has burst, contact Pierpoint Plumbing at 816-208-9437. Our experts will assess the situation and make necessary repairs.
Benefits of Preventing Frozen Pipes
Taking proactive steps to keep your pipes from freezing offers several advantages:- Avoid Costly Repairs: Preventing frozen pipes eliminates the risk of bursts, which can result in expensive water damage.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your plumbing is winter-ready reduces stress during cold spells.
- Lower Water Bills: Avoiding leaks caused by freezing keeps your water usage under control.
- Preserve Property Value: Well-maintained plumbing contributes to your home’s overall value.
Why Choose Pierpoint Plumbing?
At Pierpoint Plumbing, we’re experts in helping Kansas City homeowners prevent and address frozen pipes. Our team combines years of experience with state-of-the-art tools to provide fast, effective solutions. Whether you need help insulating your pipes or emergency repairs, we’ve got you covered.Get Winter-Ready with Pierpoint Plumbing
Don’t wait until temperatures drop to protect your home. Follow these expert tips on how to keep pipes from freezing and avoid winter plumbing headaches. For professional assistance, contact Pierpoint Plumbing at 816-208-9437 today. We’re here to keep your plumbing system safe and functional all season long. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy a worry-free winter with Pierpoint Plumbing!