How to Keep Your Pipes from Freezing

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

As the weather gets colder, the possibility of frozen pipes in your Germantown, Tennessee, or Collierville, Tennessee, home becomes a genuine concern. If you have a pipe freeze, the water inside can expand, and the pipe can burst. Follow these steps SERVPRO of Germantown / Collierville has outlined below to prevent this from happening.

1. Insulate

Any pipes in unheated places, like basements and crawlspaces, should be wrapped in insulation such as fiberglass or foam rubber sleeves. Use as much insulation as you can.

2. Maintain a Stable Temperature

Keeping the temperature the same year around also helps prevent frozen pipes. Having the thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit will help keep the pipes from freezing, but it will also prevent contraction and expansion, which can weaken pipes and cause them to leak.

3. Keep Faucets Running

Let your faucets run at a slow drip when the weather gets below freezing. This can prevent pipes from freezing by making sure that pressure doesn't build up inside. Even if the water freezes, it won't be able to cause the pipe to burst.

4. Close Valves, Open Valves

Any valves that supply water to the outside should be closed. Any outside valves should be opened to allow any water that's inside to flow out.

5. Frozen Pipe is Found

If you turn on the faucet during a cold snap, and hardly any water comes out, a pipe will probably be frozen. Check along the exterior wall to find the pipe or see where the water line comes through the foundation to enter the house. Once the problem area is located, use a heating pad or a hairdryer to warm up the pipe, allowing the water to run while you do it.

If you had frozen pipes burst and caused water damage to your home, contact SERVPRO of Germantown / Collierville at (901) 755-3705 to take care of the repairs.