It's that time of year again when the cold weather starts to set in and we all have to start taking precautions to prevent burst pipes. Burst pipes can cause a lot of damage, not to mention they are a huge hassle to deal with. In this blog post, we will explain what causes burst pipes and how you can prevent them from happening in your home.
How Do Burst Pipes Happen?
One of the most common causes of burst pipes is freezing temperatures. When water freezes, it expands, placing added pressure on your pipes. This pressure can eventually lead to your pipes cracking or bursting.
Insulate Your Plumbing
One of the best ways to prevent your pipes from freezing is to insulate them. This can be done by simply wrapping them in insulation or by installing heat tape. If you live in an area that gets particularly cold, you may even want to consider having your pipes professionally insulated.
Winterize Your Outdoor Plumbing
Another way to prevent burst pipes is to winterize your outdoor plumbing. This means disconnecting any hoses and draining any water that is left in them. You should also cover any exposed pipes with insulation or a covering.
Keep Water Dripping from Faucets
If the temperatures outside are starting to dip, it's a good idea to keep a slow drip of water running from your faucets. This may seem like a waste of water, but it can actually help prevent your pipes from freezing. The moving water will help keep the temperature inside your pipes above freezing, which will help reduce the risk of them bursting.
Keep Your Home Warm
Finally, one of the best ways to prevent burst pipes is to keep your home warm. This may seem like common sense, but you'd be surprised how many people turn their heat down or off completely when they leave for extended periods of time. If you're going to be gone for more than a day or two, it's best to keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees.
Following these simple tips can help you prevent burst pipes this winter. If you do end up with a burst pipe, be sure to shut off the water to your home immediately and call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for help!
