The risk of burst pipes is a significant concern when winter approaches. This occurs as a result of water freezing inside pipes and expanding which can put a lot of pressure on the pipe, ultimately causing it to burst. This will lead to water damage and expensive repairs. You can take proactive measures to protect plumbing in your home and we will look into this in the article below.
If you are dealing with burst pipes
It is best to call a plumber Abbotsford so that they can start the repairs immediately. They will also advise you on what to be done to prevent it in the future. When there are pipes in unheated areas whether it is crawl spaces, attics, basements etc. these are vulnerable to freezing. You need to insulate exposed pipes using wrapping or pipe insulation sleeves. Foam insulation is a commonly use method and this can protect pipes even in cold temperatures. You need to make sure that all the joints and bends in plumbing are covered properly as these are the areas that are at high risk of freezing. There can be gaps and cracks near the pipes which will let in cold air from outside into the house. This will lower the temperature and increases the risk of freezing. You need to seal these cracks and gaps in the exterior walls, around windows and doors, floors etc. so that cold drafts will be prevented from reaching the pipes. You can use spray foam insulation for this or caulk.
When there are drastic drops in indoor temperatures
Which is something that can usually occur at night or when the house is not occupied, this can lead to freezing of pipes. It is important to maintain consistent heating throughout the house even when you are away or if only a few people are in the house. You can set the thermostat to a temperature that will ensure the pipes in vulnerable areas have sufficient warmth. You need to make sure that the temperature doesn’t drop from 13°C. As water expands when it freezes, this will put a lot of pressure inside the pipes. When you are experiencing extremely cold weather, you can allow the faucets that are connected to vulnerable pipes, especially those located along the exterior walls to drip slowly. This constant flow of water can relieve pressure inside the pipes and reduce the risk of pipes freezing and bursting.
When there is water trapped
In outdoor hoses and pipes, this will freeze and expand. This will damage the hose and the plumbing connected to it. You need to disconnect all the outdoor hoses before winter starts and have they stored indoors. If there are outdoor faucets, you can have frost-proof spigots installed. There are also insulating covers that can be used to protect from freezing temperatures. There will be pipes under the bathroom sinks or the kitchen sinks that are located along the exterior walls. These will be susceptible to freezing. You need to open the cabinet doors when there is extremely cold weather so that warm air from the house will circulate around the pipes.