Most homeowners and business owners have dealt with the dreaded frozen pipe at some point. Whether it meant losing water access—or dealing with the aftermath of a burst pipe—it’s always stressful and disruptive. The good news is that frozen pipes don’t have to be inevitable. With proper preparation, you can significantly reduce the risk. Follow these six tips to help keep your property protected all winter long.
1. Always Keep the Heat On
You don’t need to crank the thermostat, but your indoor temperature should never drop below 55°F, even when you’re away. Maintaining this minimum temperature helps protect pipes in less-insulated areas like crawl spaces, basements, and exterior walls from freezing.
2. Let Faucets Drip
You may have heard this tip before—and for good reason. Moving water is less likely to freeze, so allowing faucets to drip slightly during extremely cold weather can help prevent ice from forming in your pipes. This is especially helpful when you’re away from home.
3. Open Cabinet Doors
During especially cold nights or when traveling, open the cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks. This allows warm air to circulate around the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.
4. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
This is an easy step to overlook, especially when cold weather arrives unexpectedly. Disconnecting hoses and shutting off and draining outdoor spigots early in the fall can prevent trapped water from freezing and damaging pipes.
5. Winterize and Seal Gaps
Cold air can sneak in through even the smallest cracks or openings. Before temperatures drop, take time to seal gaps with caulk or weatherstripping to keep cold drafts away from vulnerable plumbing.
6. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas—such as garages, basements, or utility rooms—are especially susceptible to freezing. Insulating them with pipe sleeves or heat tape is an affordable and effective way to protect your home or business.
Still have questions?
If this article is useful to you, or if you know someone who can benefit from it, please share it.
Have another question? Contact the Lakes Region team, and we’ll find your solution.
Our clients are homeowners, small business owners, and corporations—and one could be you by calling 603-286-2290 or emailing info@lrhvac.com.
