When winter rolls in, it’s not just your thermostat that needs attention — your home’s plumbing does too. Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and costly) cold-weather disasters homeowners face, but the good news is: with a little preparation, you can avoid the mess and expense.
At Blue Collar Plumbing and Heating, we’ve seen firsthand how winter can wreak havoc on unprotected pipes. Here are a few simple, effective ways to help safeguard your plumbing before the deep freeze sets in:
Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, crawl spaces, and garages are most at risk when temperatures drop. Use pipe insulation sleeves, heat tape, or foam pipe wrap to give them extra protection against the cold. This small investment can prevent the costly damage of burst pipes.
Cold air sneaking into your home can cause nearby pipes to freeze — even if your heating system is running. Check around windows, doors, and where pipes enter the walls. Sealing these gaps with caulk or insulation can make a big difference for both your pipes and your heating bill.
When extremely cold weather is in the forecast, leave your faucets on a slight drip — especially those connected to exposed pipes or running along exterior walls. Moving water is much less likely to freeze, reducing the risk of pressure buildup and pipe bursts.
Pipes located under kitchen and bathroom sinks are often out of sight — and out of mind — but can freeze quickly in cold snaps. Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing, especially overnight when temperatures typically drop.
In case the worst happens and a pipe does freeze or burst, knowing how to shut off your home’s water supply can minimize damage and give you time to call in professional help. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the shut-off valve is located.
A little preparation can go a long way toward avoiding a winter plumbing disaster. If you want help winterizing your home or if you’re already facing a frozen pipe scare, Blue Collar Plumbing and Heating is just a call away.
Our experienced team is ready to help you protect your home — and your wallet — from the cold.
Need help winter-proofing your plumbing? Contact Blue Collar Plumbing and Heating today for expert service and peace of mind all season long.
