Pipe Winterization Tips From Plumbing Professionals
Pipes can burst any time of year if they are not well maintained or installed properly. During the cold winter months, plumbing systems face a specific set of challenges from freezing temperatures.
Frozen pipes can cause the pipes to swell or contract, resulting in leaky or burst pipes that need repiping. A burst pipe can be dangerous and expensive to fix. There are ways that homeowners can winterize their pipes in the winter to prevent problems.
Adding pipe insulation, leaving a faucet running, and improving airflow in the home are just a few ways to prevent burst pipes in the wintertime. A professional plumber can assess the plumbing system and help the homeowner implement the most optimized plan for winterizing the pipes.
Are Burst Pipes Dangerous? 
Burst pipes can be dangerous for multiple reasons. Here is a list of some of the hazards associated with burst pipes:
- Accidental electrocution from water leaking into electrical systems inside the wall
- Slips and falls from puddling water on the floor
- Property damage from water damage can be extensive
- Injury from high water pressure
Preventing burst pipes through the winterization of the plumbing system during cold months is a powerful tool for preventing property damage and personal injury for homeowners.
Insulating Pipes In the Winter
- Use pipe wraps as insulation
- Install additional insulation in the walls around the pipes
- Make sure crawl spaces are sealed from cold winter drafts
- Use heat tape on the pipes for insulation
- Air gaps around the pipes can be sealed with waterproof expanding caulk foam
More Tips For Preventing Burst Pipes
Keeping the home warm also prevents burst pipes. Some people turn off the heater when they go to work or on vacation to save money on the utility bill, but this leaves their pipes vulnerable to freezing over. The potential cost of a burst pipe is far more than that of leaving the heat on at a moderate temperature while on a holiday vacation.
Having enough insulation in the walls themselves also helps to keep the pipes from freezing. The home should be kept above freezing temperatures, and drafts should be sealed to keep cold air from getting in. Here are a few more hacks that homeowners can use to avoid a burst pipe:
- Keep water moving through the pipes by always having a faucet slightly running
- Keep basement and crawl spaces warm
- Leave cabinet doors open to allow the air to warm the pipes
- Call a plumber for seasonal plumbing maintenance
In the case of an emergency burst pipe, the homeowner may need to call an emergency plumber. During the winter, emergency plumbers receive many calls about frozen or burst pipes. Doing maintenance and winterizing the pipes with additional insulation will help prevent the need to call an emergency plumber this December.
About John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning
John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning in Lincoln, NE’s is the go-to home service provider for their reliability, affordability, and expertise. They provide comprehensive plumbing services in Lincoln, NE, and the surrounding communities. Call today to schedule an appointment!
