Tips to Avoid Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are problematic for a home, but homeowners can help avoid them and the costly issues they can cause. If frozen pipes burst, homeowners must deal with water damage, so it’s best to avoid them altogether. A few simple tips can help prevent pipes from freezing and bursting during the winter.
Why Are Frozen Pipes Dangerous?
Frozen pipes not only cause a loss of water in a home but can burst under extreme pressure. When sections of water in the line freezes, it expands and can cause the pipes to crack and leak or burst. A leaking or burst pipe is extremely dangerous, as it can lead to costly water damage, high water bills, repair costs, and even mold growth.
Common health symptoms of indoor mold or mildew growth include headaches, sore throats, eye irritation, and other respiratory issues. For household members with weakened immune systems, mold growth is especially problematic. Repeated exposure increases the likelihood of illness and allergic reactions. If mold is inhaled regularly, mold spores can invade the lungs, causing further breathing issues.
Pipe Insulation
Adding insulation to pipes can protect the piping from freezing temperatures and prevent frozen pipes. Foam pipe insulation is one of the most commonly used materials because it has low thermal conductivity. Insulation does not just protect against the cold. It locks heat inside the piping, reducing condensation. This protects the pipes from corroding, which can extend the lifespan of the lines and protect the home from water damage.
Proper insulation can also save homeowners money on energy bills. Pipe insulation is available in various materials, such as foam, mineral wool, polyethylene, and cellular glass. These materials’ performance is based on factors like thermal conductivity, water vapor resistance, thickness, density, and surface emissivity. Professional plumbers can help homeowners decide which pipe insulation material works best for their homes.
Other Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes
There are a few more easy ways homeowners can help prevent the pipes from freezing. Some houses have cracks or gaps that can let in cold air, so those should be sealed to protect the piping. Homeowners can also leave doors and cabinets open to ensure warm air circulates within the home.
A consistent indoor temperature is also recommended to prevent frozen pipes even when the home is empty. The thermostat should be set to 55 degrees Fahrenheit at the very least when away during cold weather. Letting a small trickle of water drip from taps can also reduce the likelihood of ice forming inside the plumbing system during the coldest days of the year. This relieves pressure so that freezing and ruptures can be avoided.
About Reeves Family Plumbing
Reeves Family Plumbing is a family-owned and operated company that has been serving Dallas and the surrounding areas since 1963. They offer free phone estimates, prompt arrivals, and 24-hour emergency services. Call them today for plumbing services, leak detection, or burst pipe repair in Dallas, TX.
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