As the temperature continues to reach lower levels each night, the possibility of our pipes freezing and bursting grows. Pipe bursts are a common cause of property damage that many don’t consider during the winter. The good news is that there are some simple things that your household can do to keep your pipes from bursting and your home from potential flooding.
Open Bathroom & Kitchen Cabinets Under Sinks
Open the cabinets beneath your sinks before you go to bed at night to allow warm air to circulate around your plumbing pipes. This warmth paired with cold water drip from your faucets counteracts the frigid temperature and allows for your pipes to remain intact. If you have children in your home, then we recommend that you don’t open your cabinets until they are asleep. This ensures their safety from household cleaners or chemical products underneath your sinks.
Let A Little Cold Water Drip from Your Faucets
If you let cold water trickle out of your faucets during this season of frigid weather you’ll keep your pipes operating without using too much water. While it seems counterproductive to use cold water as opposed to warm water, it is cheaper to use cold water since warm water requires help from your heater. Also, since you’re opening your cabinets and having water trickling, there is no need to use warm water, as warm air will already be flowing around your plumbing pipes.
Keep the Thermostat At A Moderate Temperature
While it is the winter, it is important to keep your thermostat at a moderate temperature day-in and day-out. A wide variance in temperatures in your home affects how vulnerable your pipes are. If your pipes aren’t properly warmed at night, then your pipes are more susceptible to freezing, even with trickling water and cabinets open. Having the cabinets open only works if the temperature in your house is warm enough to successfully add warm air and insulate your plumbing pipes.
No job is too big or small. If you find yourself in a bind with your pipes, plumbing, heating, or air be sure to call us at (806) 372-1572. Remember, your family’s comfort is our priority.
