Prevent a Burst Pipe in Your Home
When the temperatures begin to drop, this can cause the water in your pipes to freeze. Since water expands as it freezes, it puts pressure on the pipe that is holding it and eventually causes it to break.
In order to avoid a burst pipe, you must take many precautions to ensure that the water flowing through it doesn’t freeze. Here are a few things you can do:
Before the temperature starts to become frigid, you should take extra steps to ensure that your exposed pipes are insulated. Pipes that are exposed can easily burst when the temperature drops below freezing.
Pay special attention to the pipe between your Easton home and the water meter, as it is the most vulnerable to freezing.
It may also be a good idea to insulate any pipes that may be located in your basement or attic, especially if those areas of your home tend to be colder than the rest.
You can use foam insulation, which can be found at your local hardware store, to protect your pipes. Wrap any exposed pipes with this insulation, and remember, the more you use, the more your pipes are protected. You can secure the insulation with copper wire or electrical tape.
2. Let the Water Drip From Your Faucet.
If the weather is extremely cold, you can let a small amount of water continuously drip from your faucet. A small trickle of hot or cold water is all it takes to keep your pipes from freezing and eventually bursting.
Let the water drip from your faucet overnight if the weather is anticipated to be very cold.
3. Keep Your Thermostat at a Consistent Temperature.
You may be saving on your electric bill, but setting your thermostat to a cooler temperature at night could be detrimental for your pipes. Keeping the temperature high enough is extremely important in preventing pipes from freezing.
You also should make sure that you never set your thermostat below 55 degrees. Even if you leave your Easton home for an extended period of time, don’t turn off the heat.
If the pipes in your home are prone to freezing, these are precautions you will want to take to prevent them from bursting. For a more permanent solution, you can also consider having your pipes relocated to provide them with increased protection from the harsh winter weather.
Avoid a costly pipe burst with these key tips! Call Schuler Service at (610) 991-7098 for repairs in your Easton, PA home.
