Every state across the country experiences winter a little bit differently. While Texas winters are not as frigid as our Northern neighbors’, they can still reach freezing temperatures. Many Southern houses are not equipped to handle a deep freeze. Even if you live in San Antonio, you should prepare your home for a freeze every winter.
This article from Mr. Plumber outlines what you can do to keep your pipes from freezing this winter.
How Pipes Freeze
As you may know, when water reaches its freezing point, it expands as it turns into ice. Standing water inside your home’s plumbing system can freeze in the pipes and rupture them. Other than broken pipes and flooded floors, freezing temperatures can also cause ice blocks in your pipes. Ice blockages may not always result in a pipe rupture, but they can cut off your access to clean running water.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
Install Pipe Insulation
Before the temperature drops, wrap any exposed pipes with specifically designed insulation. This includes garden spigots, pipes in the garage and any plumbing you can reach in unheated attics and crawl spaces.
Seal Holes and Cracks
Even small holes in walls that allow cable feeds are large enough to let freezing air inside. Pipes that run close to these holes and cracks can reach freezing temperatures. Make sure all holes and cracks are properly sealed before the temperature drops to freezing.
Drip Faucets and Open Cabinets
Keep the water flowing through your pipes by turning faucets on. A slow drip allows enough movement through the pipes to deter freezing. Allow warm air to circulate under bathroom and kitchen sinks to keep the pipes warm.
Adjust Your Thermostat
While it’s good practice to lower your home’s temperature by a few degrees at night, this is not the case when a freeze hits. If a freeze is forecast for your area, aim to keep the temperature in your space as steady as possible until the threat has passed.
Open Inside Doors and Close the Garage
Allow warm air to travel around your entire home by opening interior doors. Some garages have water supply lines so keep the garage door closed to block freezing air.
When Pipes Freeze
Frozen pipes do not always result in an immediate flooding situation. Sometimes ice blocks form below a rupture and hold back the flow of water. If you suspect a pipe rupture, turn off your water at the main supply valve and contact a professional plumber. Alternatively, if your pipes have thawed and you still don’t have water pressure, that may be a sign of a larger problem.
Call a Professional
Even though most Texas residents rarely experience icy winters, freezing temperatures do happen. Prepare your home’s plumbing by taking logical precautions. At the least, drip your faucets, install insulation and keep your heater at a steady temperature.
You may have done everything right, but sometimes catastrophe still strikes. If you find yourself in need of reliable plumbing services in San Antonio, put your trust in Mr. Plumber. We offer 24/7 emergency service and easy financing options. Contact us today!