Pipes bursting from a frozen water line can be a very costly repair. Not only to replace the burst pipe, but also to repair the damage the water may have caused to the floor, walls, and cabinetry as well as creating an environment for black mold to grow. A burst pipe can leak up to 250 gallons of water a day!
-Keep the heat on. When you leave your home for a few days or even weeks, it can be tempting to turn the heat off to save on energy costs. The amount you could save from this decision could end up costing thousands of dollars in repairs. Keep your thermostat set at 55 degrees at least.
-Let your faucets drip. Keeping warm water running through your lines will help prevent pipes from freezing. You’re also allowing the faucet to be open which will relieve pressure built up in water lines if the pipes do freeze and the water expands as it turns to ice.
-Keep the cabinet doors open. Allow the warm air in your home to circulate around the pipes under the sink.
-Use heat tape on pipes more susceptible to colder temperatures. Heat tape is essentially a cable or cord that contains wires and when electricity runs through those wires, it produces heat. This is very beneficial for pipes that are located in the garage where it is usually several degrees cooler than the rest of the home.
-Add more insulation. The basement and attic are usually the least insulated areas of the home and most likely to be exposed to freezing temperatures for longer periods of time.
-Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses. Also, invest in a hose bib cover which is easy to install and protects your outdoor spigots from freezing temperatures. If you have a sprinkler system, don’t forget to turn off the water supply and drain those underground water lines as well.
If you do get caught in a situation with a burst pipe from frozen water lines, call De Hart Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling at 785-341-4193 to repair the damaged pipes and get your home back in working order.
De Hart Plumbing Heating and Cooling, serving Manhattan Kansas, Junction City Kansas, Wamego Kansas, Topeka Kansas, and some surrounding areas.