Frozen pipes can result in burst pipes, which can be expensive to repair. However, there are effective measures you can take to prevent this from occurring Should your best efforts fall short call R & S Plumbing or R & S Restores
“When water freezes, it expands, which can create pressure that may lead to pipes cracking or bursting. When the water thaws, it can leak from these cracks if the pipes did not burst during the freezing process. Even a small crack can result in the loss of hundreds of gallons of water each day. This can turn your home into a swimming pool causing significant water damage, and expensive repairs. Preventing frozen pipes is not only about avoiding inconvenience; it is also essential for safeguarding your home’s structure, plumbing system, and pocket book.
The best defense is preparation A quick inspection will find areas of concern. We suggest having a local plumber or HVAC company like R & S Plumbing performs a routine checkups. To ensure your heating system is functioning properly.
Focus on areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages and exterior walls Foam pipe insulation sleeves are inexpensive and easy to install. You can also use spray insulation foam, insulation tape and heat tape.”
To enhance the protection of your water pipes in the basement and outside, simply wrap these foam covers around them. They are pre-slit for your convenience, allowing you to easily slide them onto the pipes. After that, just remove the film covering the adhesive and secure everything in place.
During the spring, we receive numerous calls from homeowners who discover their homes or basements flooded due to a broken hose bib or outdoor faucet. Insulated socks are available to help reduce your risk of this issue. Upgrading to frost-free hose bibs is an excellent option, and R & S Plumbing can assist with the installation.
At R & S Plumbing, we’re more than just a plumbing company — we’re your local team committed to fast response, honest pricing, and lasting results. Whether it’s a small leak or a major sewer backup, you can count on us for reliable service 24/7.
A small, consistent drip helps maintain water flow and lowers the chance of freezing. If you are concerned about water waste, you might want to place a container under the faucet to collect the water, which can then be utilized for watering plants, washing dishes, and other purposes.
Maintain your thermostat at a consistent temperature, no lower than 55°F, even when you are not at home. This practice helps to ensure that your pipes stay warm enough to allow for proper water flow.
If your heating system is compatible with a smart thermostat, it can be beneficial when you are away and unsure if you left the heat on. You can manage it through an app for added reassurance. If you do not have one and are interested in upgrading, please contact us.
It is essential to permit heat to penetrate the interiors of your cupboards, particularly those located under sinks on exterior walls. This facilitates the circulation of warm air around the pipes.
If you have children, grandchildren, or pets that you prefer to keep away from your cabinets, you can leave the doors slightly open using these adjustable straps.
You can purchase pipe heat cables for some of your more vulnerable water lines. It is important to do your research and select options that have positive reviews and are considered safe. You want to avoid the risk of water damage but not risk a fire.
Additionally, smart water leak detectors, such as Moen’s Flo, can notify you of freezing temperatures. Leaks before they lead to significant problems. While this unit is on the more expensive side. It features an automatic shutoff that activates if it detects any irregularities. Potentially saving you a considerable amount of money. It can be monitored through an app and will send notifications if any issues arise. For installation, please contact R & S Plumbing.
Ensuring that your HVAC system is functioning correctly and implementing some preventative measures can help you avoid emergency calls to property restoration companies such as R & S Restores. We hope this information is helpful and assists in keeping your home protected this winter.