Keep your pipes warm this winter with TMS.
As you prepare for the holidays, the last thing you want to worry about is keeping your pipes warm! Taking some precautions can prevent the likelihood of your pipes freezing or bursting and will save you a lot of hassle down the road. Here are some things to check off your list before the temperatures really drop!
Are Your Pipes Insulated?
Keep your pipes warm this winter with good insulation. Pipes that run through unheated areas are more likely to freeze, and are therefore the most important to insulate. This applies to both cold and hot water pipes, as hot water pipes may still freeze if left unused. Even if you have insulated your pipes in past years, check each winter to ensure parts of the pipes have not become exposed.
If your pipes need pipe insulation call our plumbing experts at TMS at 860-314-1518.
Pipe Leaks Let in Cold Air
Make sure there are no leaks near your pipes that are letting in cold air. If you find a crack, it’s likely you’ll need a plumbing expert to repair the issue and keep it from getting worse. It is also a good idea to leave your garage door closed to prevent cold air from coming in that way, especially if your pipes run through the area.
Let Water Drip
A little water today can keep you from cleaning up a lot of water later! When temperatures are very low, let cold water drip overnight. This should ideally be done with the faucet that is furthest away from the main valve. Even a small amount of moving water will make your pipes less likely to freeze than if left stagnant.
Monitor Your Thermostat
Keeping your thermostat at a consistent temperature no matter the time of day may keep your
pipes from freezing. (It also helps save money on heating!) It’s recommended to always have your heat set to 55 degrees or higher, even when you’re on vacation, to make sure everything is running smoothly when you return.
Turn off Water to the Outside
When freezing weather is expected, shut off water leading to outdoor faucets, such as hoses or outdoor showers. Drain the water from these pipes or hoses and leave them unused until the temperatures increase again.
What If They Still Freeze?
Even if you keep your pipes warm this winter, it is always good to know what to do in case your pipes end up frozen. The most important thing is to prevent water from flooding your home if a pipe has burst. If no water is coming out of your faucets, turn off the main water source. Once this is done, if there is no apparent damage to the pipes, you can attempt to thaw them. Here are some tips to follow when doing so:
- Don’t use anything flammable to thaw your pipes. This may seem like the quickest method, but it could result in damaging your pipes or stating a fire.
- Instead, opt for a hairdryer, hot towel, or heating pad to slowly thaw the pipes. Begin at the part of the pipe closest to the faucet and work your way down.
- Continue until the pipes are thawed and water pressure is back to normal.
If you suspect your pipes have been damaged in the freeze or there are additional issues, contact TMS at 860-314-1518.
Why Should You Trust Total Mechanical Systems?
At Total Mechanical Systems, we’ve helped countless homeowners prepare for and overcome cold weather issues whether it’s plumbing, heating or electrical. Our licensed and experienced plumbers use state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose and fix any problem, ensuring your home’s plumbing operates at peak performance.
Contact Total Mechanical Systems Today
Contact Total Mechanical Systems today for a professional assessment of your home’s winter readiness. Call us or book an appointment online to keep you pipes flowing freely.
If you have further questions or need recommendations, call TMS at 860-314-1518. Or email us via our Contact Page. After all, staying informed is the first step to ensuring your home remains a comfortable haven year-round!
