Insurance One Shares How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter
The Michigan weather is definitely getting frightful. But even more frightful than snow storms are frozen pipes. Insurance One is here to update you on the best way to keep your pipes in good shape all winter long.
But first, let’s quickly cover how your pipes freeze.
When water freezes, it expands. When it’s in your pipes, there’s nowhere for it to go. This creates a lot of pressure inside your pipes and eventually causes them to burst. Fixing this isn’t only a bad nightmare, it’s an expensive one, too.
So, here’s how to prevent frozen pipes.
Insulate your pipes. Fit foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves around your pipes. This will reduce the likelihood of them freezing. Definitely do this for unheated interior spaces like basements, attics and garages. Pipe insulation is rather inexpensive, costing about 50 cents per linear foot at your local hardware store.
Use heating tape. For short sections of pipe that are at high risk for freezing, apply heating tape. It works like an electric blanket, with a thermostat that will turn on and off when needed. (If you aren’t sure how to do this, here’s a tutorial from The Spruce.)
Keep your heat on (and the temperature consistent). With the heating bill in mind, it may seem tempting to occasionally turn the temperature down. Though setting the same temperature can help protect your pipes. It’s recommended by experts to go no lower than 55°F during colder months.
Keep your garage door closed. This protects any water lines that live in your garage.
But, keep your cabinet and closet doors open in the garage. This helps warm air circulate into storage spaces, especially on exterior walls. (Remove any harmful household chemicals, so young children or pets can’t access them.)
Let cold water drip from the faucet. Letting water trickle helps prevent pipes from freezing. Of course, this isn’t ideal for your water bill, but the alternative could cost much more. With the water moving, it’s less likely to reach freezing temperature.
Disconnect outdoor hoses. Close the inside hose valve, remove the hose and store it away for the season. You’ll want to keep the outside valve open to allow the water to drain.
These small acts can prevent a big disaster. If you’re looking for more ways, to keep your home in tip-top shape this winter, connect with an Insurance One rep today!