With winter only weeks away, it’s important to get your home prepared for those freezing temperatures. Since all water expands when it freezes, this will include the water in your pipes. If not protected from the cold, your pipes become victims to a burst or crack, which can lead to a mountain of other problems. What we’ll discuss today is what we can do to winterize your pipes to protect them from outside temperatures. Here are three big tips to help you winterize your home this winter:
1. Minimize Freezing Air. Two of the biggest areas of concern are the crawlspace and attic. If you have plumbing that runs in either of these two areas, you’ll want to make sure it is either covered or wrapped in insulation, with no holes or gaps that expose the pipe to the cold air. Even a gap in insulation can create a cold spot where the pipe can be susceptible to freezing.
2. Maintain a Moderate Temperature. In 2013, AAA projected that 94.5 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more from home during the year-end holiday season. In order to save on heating costs, many people will turn off their furnace. But turning it completely off could be detrimental to your pipes. While it may be okay to let it drop a little, you never want to let it drop below 55 degrees or you run the risk of allowing your pipes to freeze.
3. Give your Hose bibbs Some Extra Love. Your exterior hose bibs are the most susceptible because they are located on the exterior of the home and freezing water can easily break a pipe or valve. If possible, drain the water line to the hose bib. Never leave the hose connected to the hose bib during cold months, and get an inexpensive faucet cover at your local hardware store.
As a home inspector in the Seattle area, I see all the time how these simple steps could save you a big headache and your pocket book. Unfortunately, I’ve even had to live through it myself (but that’s a story for another day)!
