As winter approaches, homeowners in Bakersfield may not experience the harshest winter weather, but sudden cold snaps can still cause significant problems, including frozen pipes. When water inside your pipes freezes, it can expand, leading to pipe bursts, water damage, and costly repairs. Preventing frozen pipes is easier than dealing with the aftermath, so here are some practical tips from Payless Plumbing to help keep your plumbing system safe this winter.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
The first line of defense against freezing pipes is insulation. Pipes located in unheated or exposed areas like attics, basements, garages, and crawl spaces are particularly vulnerable. Wrapping these pipes with foam insulation or using heat tape can help maintain a consistent temperature. Don’t forget to insulate pipes along exterior walls, which are often subjected to colder outdoor temperatures. Proper insulation ensures that your pipes stay warm even when the temperature drops outside.
2. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Cold air can sneak into your home through gaps and cracks, especially around windows, doors, and where pipes enter or exit the building. Sealing these gaps with caulk or weatherstripping can prevent cold drafts from freezing your pipes. Even small gaps can allow enough cold air inside to pose a risk, so it’s worth taking the time to carefully inspect and seal all areas where cold air might enter.
3. Keep Indoor Temperature Consistent
Many homeowners lower their thermostats at night or when they’re away to save on heating costs, but this can increase the risk of frozen pipes. It’s essential to maintain a consistent indoor temperature, even if you’re not home. Ideally, you should keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F (13°C) to prevent the temperature from dropping too low. This will ensure that the pipes in your walls and crawl spaces stay warm enough to avoid freezing.
4. Open Cabinet Doors
Pipes located under sinks or near exterior walls can freeze if not properly insulated. An easy way to prevent this is by opening cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate these pipes. This is especially important in kitchens and bathrooms, where pipes are often hidden behind closed cabinets. Allowing the warmer air from your home to reach these vulnerable areas can make a big difference during a cold snap.
5. Let Faucets Drip
During particularly cold weather, allowing your faucets to drip can help prevent your pipes from freezing. Running water through the pipes, even at a trickle, can relieve pressure and help prevent the buildup of frozen water that leads to pipe bursts. This method is especially effective for pipes located in areas that are difficult to insulate or prone to freezing.
6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses and Shut Off Water to Outdoor Faucets
Leaving hoses attached to outdoor faucets during the winter can cause water to back up into your pipes, increasing the likelihood of freezing and bursts. Disconnect all outdoor hoses, drain any remaining water, and shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets. If your home has frost-proof spigots, you should still remove the hoses to prevent damage.
7. Install Heat Tape on Vulnerable Pipes
For homes located in areas prone to colder weather, heat tape can provide an extra layer of protection for exposed pipes. Heat tape is a type of electrical insulation that can be wrapped around pipes to supply heat and prevent freezing. Make sure to follow manufacturer instructions carefully to ensure proper installation and safe operation.
8. Shut Off and Drain Water Lines if Leaving for an Extended Period
If you plan to be away from your home for an extended period during the winter, it’s wise to shut off your water supply and drain your plumbing system. This will prevent water from sitting in the pipes and freezing while you're away. If you’re unsure how to do this, Payless Plumbing can help ensure your home is winterized properly.
Call Us for Reliable Plumbing Services in Bakersfield
Preventing frozen pipes is essential to avoiding expensive repairs and water damage. By taking these simple steps—insulating pipes, sealing gaps, maintaining a steady indoor temperature, and being mindful of vulnerable areas—you can protect your home and plumbing system throughout the winter.
If you need professional assistance winterizing your home, contact Payless Plumbing today at (661) 464-1557 for fast, reliable, and affordable service!