When water freezes, it expands. While this might seem like just a fun fact at first, this phenomenon can spell trouble for your pipes when temperatures drop. If the water in your pipes freezes during the colder months, the pipes can burst, causing significant problems.

Rather than dealing with water damage and costly repairs, it's best to be proactive and take preventive measures to reduce the chances of your pipes freezing. Here are six easy steps you can take to protect your home:

Adjust Your Thermostat

The easiest way to prevent frozen pipes is to adjust your thermostat to maintain a consistent temperature. Keeping your home warm helps prevent freezing, especially in crawl spaces or near exterior walls. By circulating warm air throughout the home, you can protect your water pipes from freezing.

Turn Off Exterior Water Spigots

Lower the chances of pipes freezing by turning off exterior water spigots and draining water from hoses. If your outdoor hose faucets freeze, the water inside can expand, potentially leading to burst pipes. Remember to shut off the water supply lines that feed your outdoor faucets.

Insulate Pipes

Installing pipe insulation can also help prevent freezing. Apply insulation to water supply lines located in crawl spaces, garages, along exterior walls, and in areas that don't receive much warmth from your heating system. This extra layer of protection helps keep your pipes from freezing during extreme cold.

Close Your Garage Doors

If your home has an attached garage, keep the garage doors closed to prevent cold air from entering. This step is crucial if water supply lines run through the garage or near uninsulated walls. Keeping the garage doors shut allows warmer air to protect those exposed pipes.

Let Your Taps Drip

Another simple way to prevent frozen pipes is to let your taps drip during freezing weather. You don't need to keep water running constantly, especially if you're away from home. However, even a slight trickle can relieve pressure buildup inside the pipes and help prevent freezing.

Seal Any Leaks

Cold drafts from cracks in walls, windows, or doors can quickly freeze pipes, so be sure to seal any leaks that could let cold air into your home. Use a portable space heater to warm areas around your pipes, but be cautious not to place it near flammable materials. Sealing leaks, opening bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to reach pipes, and using space heaters strategically can help prevent freezing and thaw frozen pipes more quickly if needed. 

If You Have a Frozen Pipe Problem, Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, we help homeowners like you solve their plumbing issues. Whether you're dealing with a frozen pipe, leaking pipes, or need a new plumbing installation, our team will always be happy to assist you. Contact us today to schedule one of our plumbing services for your home!