Preventing Frozen Pipes

There are 3 common causes of frozen pipes: poor insulation, a quick drop in temperature and the thermostat is set too low. Be aware that any time temperatures dip to 32 degrees and below, unprotected pipes are vulnerable to freezing, especially when you factor in the wind chill.

Here are 5 tips for preventing frozen pipes:

Tip 1: Have your pipes in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls Insulated.

Tip 2: When temperatures are below freezing, leave the cabinet doors under the kitchen or bathroom sink open to allow the warm air to protect the pipes, especially if the pipes are located on an outside wall.

Tip 3: Allow a stream of water to flow from the faucet through pipes that are vulnerable to freezing.

Tip 4: When the temperature is below freezing, keep thermostats at the same temperature at night as during the day.

Tip 5: Every responsible person in the household should know where the water main cut-off valve is located in your home. Tag it.

If you turn on your faucet and the water doesn’t flow, the water in your pipes may already be frozen. Please do not attempt to thaw your frozen pipes – you may crack or damage the pipe causing more problems. Call Emerson Plumbing right away at 931-320-1937!

Another suggestion is to be careful when turning your outside spigots on in the Spring. It is possible your pipes may have been damaged and there were no outward signs during the bitter cold. If water doesn’t flow out of your spigots, this may reveal pipe damage. Be sure to know the location of your main water cut-off valve.