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Last winter, we shared some vital tips on how you can prevent frozen and burst pipes in your home, from turning off water supplies to outside locations to winterizing your sprinkler system. This winter, as temperatures creep down below freezing across the country, we are here to share even more information on protecting your home from broken pipes and the ensuing water damage.
Saving Your Pipes and Home
- Open your kitchen cabinets and bathroom cabinets to let the warm air from your home reach your plumbing more effectively.
- During extreme cold snaps, let the water trickle out of your home faucets – the movement of the water can help prevent freezing, especially if you run your hot water.
- Consider improving the insulation around your pipes, especially in trouble areas.
- Watch the temperature. How cold it can get before your pipes are in danger of freezing depends on how warm your home is, as well as how insulated your pipes and the area around your pipes are. Generally, though, you may wish to keep an eye on your pipes when the outside temperature drops below 20 degrees.
- Drain and remove your water hoses. Make sure your outside water faucets are cut off from the water supply if possible.
- Pay special attention to pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as crawl spaces, basements, attics, and garages. Remember to insulate both hot water and cold water pipes.
- Do not lower the temperature of your home too drastically at night. Any temperature under 55 degrees may put your pipes in danger of freezing and bursting.
If you have questions about your residential insurance claim, or if you believe that your claim was wrongfully delayed or denied, you may wish to order our free e-book, Your Essential Guide to Residential Claims.
