An Arctic cold front is coming to Denver to darken our doorstep. Freezing conditions are expected across the eastern plains, and road problems are fully anticipated. In short, we’re expecting quite an icy time next week.
Cold weather and freezing temperatures are part of winter, especially in Colorado. And those cooler temperatures play a significant role in home plumbing maintenance. That’s right, we’re talking about freezing pipes.
If you’re worried, you might wonder how to protect your plumbing from the cold. Here are some helpful tips:
- Insulate all exposed pipes using pipe sleeves or heat tape, especially in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
- Seal any gaps or cracks in walls and around windows or doors to prevent cold air from entering your home. Keep garage doors closed to maintain warmer temperatures, especially if water supply lines are in the garage.
- Open doors and cabinets, especially for those on exterior walls.
- Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold snaps to keep water moving and prevent freezing.
Keep a consistent temperature. Keeping your home at 55 degrees or warmer will prevent interior pipes from freezing, regardless of the outside weather.
Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes. However, if your pipes do freeze…
Which Pipes Are More Likely To Freeze?
Which pipes are the most likely to freeze during a storm like this? Well, we have the answer! Pipes exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, those in crawl spaces, and on exterior, north-facing walls.
What To Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you notice freezing pipes in your home or business, shut off the water main. Doing so will help prevent further damage to your home and plumbing system. Fortunately, you can always check out Moen’s Flo Smart Water Monitor, which monitors your plumbing and automatically shuts off water after freezing. Learn more about the Flo Smart Water Monitor by Moen by clicking here today.
Once you’ve shut off the water, the next step is to call a qualified plumber to look at your plumbing to check for damage. Our leak detection and freezing pipe experts will asses your entire plumbing system, giving you peace of mind after a freeze. With us, you’re always in good hands!
And, if you’re the proactive type, then these tips might help you thaw your pipes yourself (assuming your plumbing isn’t damaged):
- Use a heating pad, hairdryer, or towels soaked in hot water to thaw the frozen section of the pipe gently.
- Never use an open flame like a torch or direct heat on the pipe, as it may cause damage or a fire hazard.
- If you cannot locate the frozen area or the pipe has burst, immediately shut off the water supply and contact Brothers.
- If you do not have water for an extended period, special attention should be given to water heaters and boilers.
Where Is My Home’s Water Shutoff Valve?
Your home has two water shutoff valves. The first one, typically called a curb stop, is generally housed within a cylinder with a cap (called the curb box) and is usually located near the property line. The other valve is inside your home, next to the water meter.
Your home may have other shutoff valves, as well. Those other valves may be near plumbing appliances like toilets and sinks. We can label those valves for you at no charge on any of our visits so you can quickly locate them in an emergency.
Also, keeping your main valve in good working condition will assure you that you can turn your water off in an emergency, in case one of your water pipes breaks, for example. Older-style gate valves should be turned periodically due to possible corrosion build-up. Newer Teflon-coated ball valves should stay in working order without any regular turning.
If you’d like to worry a little less about when to shut off your water, we can alleviate those worries by installing a Flo Smart Water Monitor by Moen. To learn more about it, check out our water control page today!
Contact Brothers Plumbing Heating & Electric For Help Today!
If you’ve already experienced damage to your plumbing system due to freezing weather, don’t fret! Just pick up the phone and call Brothers Plumbing Heating & Electric! We’re standing by to help with all your freezing pipe and home winterization needs! Call today!
