With the cold weather months right around the corner, homeowners all over the country, and definitely in Maryland, run the risk of frozen pipes. When the temperature drops below zero, even when the heat doesn’t go out, there is always a risk that mother nature might rear her ugly head and turn your comfortable life upside down by freezing your pipes.
To avoid frozen pipes in your home this winter, here are a few tips you can follow to help eliminate your risk.
Leave the Water Dripping
It might seem counterintuitive to let a faucet drip, but in the dead of winter, it might just be necessary. Allowing your faucet(s) to drip slightly when the temperature is below zero helps to keep water flowing through the pipes. As the water is forced to move, the likelihood that it will freeze decreases. So, although your water bill might be slightly higher for that month, you will have the peace of mind knowing you won’t have a larger bill from a burst pipe.
Keep Your Doors and Windows Closed or Sealed
In every room of the house, especially rooms with exposed pipes, it is important to make sure the doors and windows are closed eliminating an influx of outside air. This is especially true for garage doors and/or cellar doors and windows. Eliminating the cool outside air will help to limit the chances of the pipes freezing by maintaining a moderate temperature.
Don’t Change Your Thermostat
Although you might be tempted to lower your thermostat during the day while you are not home, it can be one of the worst ideas for your home. When you lower the thermostat you lower the temperature in the home and allow your pipes to get colder. And, although this might not be a big deal when the temperature is in the upper 30s, it can be a big deal when the temperature drops to 0 or below because your pipes can freeze.
If you have trouble with your pipes freezing or are concerned about the upcoming winter call 410-SAMEDAY to have a professional come out, take a look at your home, and see what preventative measures can be taken to eliminate your chances of frozen pipes.
