Winter in Reno can be beautiful, but it also brings the risk of frozen pipes. At Dirty Plumber Reno, we’ve seen firsthand the damage that frozen pipes can cause, and we want to help you avoid the headache and expense. Here’s our guide to keeping your pipes ice-free this winter.
Understanding the Freeze
Water expands when it freezes, and this expansion can put tremendous pressure on your pipes, leading to cracks and bursts. The most vulnerable pipes are those located in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls. Taking preventative measures is key to avoiding costly repairs.
Insulate, Insulate, Insulate
One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is through proper insulation.
Pipe Insulation: Wrap your pipes with foam or fiberglass sleeves, especially in those vulnerable areas we mentioned earlier. You can find these at any hardware store, and they’re easy to install yourself.
Insulate Outdoor Faucets: Disconnect and drain garden hoses. Then, cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers. These covers act like a cozy winter hat for your faucets, keeping them warm and dry.
Seal Cracks and Openings: Seal any cracks or openings in your home’s foundation and exterior walls. Even small gaps can let in cold air, which can freeze nearby pipes.
Keep the Water Moving
Moving water is much less likely to freeze.
Let Faucets Drip: On especially cold nights, let a faucet drip slightly. The cost of the extra water is minimal compared to the cost of repairing a burst pipe.
Open Cabinet Doors: Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. This is especially important for pipes located on exterior walls.
Maintain a Consistent Temperature
Your thermostat can be your best friend in preventing frozen pipes.
Don’t Turn the Heat Off: If you’re going out of town, don’t turn your thermostat completely off. Set it to at least 55°F (13°C) to keep your home warm enough to prevent freezing.
Consistent Heating: Ensure that all areas of your home are adequately heated. Use space heaters in particularly cold spots, but be sure to follow safety precautions.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you turn on your faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Here’s what to do:
Act Fast: The longer the pipe remains frozen, the greater the risk of it bursting.
Apply Heat: Use a hairdryer or space heater to gently warm the frozen section of pipe. Never use an open flame.
Call a Plumber: If you can’t locate the frozen section or if you’re not comfortable thawing it yourself, call a plumber Reno right away. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to frozen pipes. By taking these simple steps, you can protect your home from water damage and save yourself a lot of money and stress. Remember, we’re committed to delivering exceptional service in every job, treating each task as a testament to our dedication.
If you need help with water heater installation in Reno, NV, or water heater repair, or suspect a frozen pipe, don't hesitate to reach out. At Dirty Plumber Reno, we’re here to provide honest, reliable plumbing services, working wholeheartedly to serve our community.