How to Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing

Frozen pipes can be a real pain. But, thankfully there are plenty of things you can do to prevent them from being damaged when the temperature dips. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we have seen what happens when property owners are unprepared for bad weather, and we want to help you prevent unnecessary water damage or pipe replacement. In this article, we'll discuss how to prevent frozen pipes, as well as some tips for dealing with problems that may have already occurred.

The Dangers of Frozen Pipes

Pipes can freeze when water temperatures reach 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below. The fluctuations in air pressure caused by repeated thawing and re-freezing of water can harm pipes. In some cases, it can even lead to a burst pipe or hidden leaks. Pipes in attics and crawl spaces, as well as pipes in unheated areas like basements or garages, are most susceptible to freezing because they don't get much natural insulation from the weather. Even those in temperature climates should prepare because all it takes is one night of cold weather to put your entire plumbing system at risk.

Preventing Frozen Pipes in the Short-Term

If a cold spell is blowing through suddenly, it can be disheartening for property owners who are concerned about the condition of their pipes. However, there are a few steps you can take to temporarily limit the likelihood of developing problems. Try the following methods:

Keep your faucets dripping slightly, this can help reduce pressure buildup.
Open all of your cabinet doors to expose pipes to the warm air circulating in your home.
Insulate outdoor faucets and spigots.
Disconnect all water hoses or sprinklers.

Long-Term Prevention Methods

While last-minute tricks like those mentioned above can help reduce the chances of freezing pipes, it’s best to invest in more permanent solutions. One simple way to avoid issues long-term is replacing standard outdoor faucets with frost-proof varieties that won’t be as susceptible to cold weather. These are often affordable and simple to install. However, the best way to keep your plumbing system protected from extreme weather is to insulate pipes, especially those located in your crawl space or basement. This will help to regulate the temperature of the water that flows through your pipes, keeping them above the freezing point even if the outside temperature drops suddenly.

Do You Need a Reliable Local Plumber to Help Protect or Repair Your Pipes?

Frozen pipes are not only inconvenient, but they can also be costly. Preventing them is simple, though. By taking a few simple precautions, you can prevent frozen pipes and save yourself the hassle and headache of dealing with the aftermath. If you have any questions about winterizing your pipes or need help repairing a repiping service, call Mr. Rooter Plumbing today. We offer a wide range of commercial and residential services including inspections, repiping, and pipe replacement in Tampa, Florida, and surrounding metro area communities. Contact our office to find out more information about our services, or to schedule a convenient appointment with a plumber in your Tampa area neighborhood.