When it comes to plumbing problems, few are as complicated as frozen pipes—especially for those that live in Alaska. When water freezes inside plumbing, it will not only interrupt the flow of water, but also increase the chance of leaks that can cause serious damage. Fortunately, Kraft Heating says there are many steps homeowners can take to protect against this issue. To keep your property in good shape—and your water flowing—this heating service out of North Pole, AK, offers a few tips for preventing frozen pipes.

How to Ensure Pipes Don’t Freeze

1. Turn off the Water Supply  

Any water lines that are outside will be the first to freeze when temperatures drop. To keep these pipes intact, be sure that all outdoor outlets are drained and the supply valves are fully closed. If you’re leaving your home unoccupied for an extended period, have a house sitter or a smart thermostat to notify you if your house temperature drops.

2. Invest in Insulation  

Even if plumbing is in an insulated space, it is wise to add extra layers of protection to it. Typically, insulation tape or foam can easily be wrapped around pipes to provide additional warmth and combat freezing.

3. Provide Warmth

Keeping your home warm can help prevent ice from forming and causing major blockages in pipes. To do this, simply keep your residential HVAC, boiler or furnace system at a temperature that will keep indoor temperatures above freezing. Faucets should remain dripping as well so water can move through pipes, making freezing less likely.

4. Thaw With Caution

If you notice that your pipes are frozen—or starting to freeze—you may be able to thaw the plumbing and prevent serious damage or leaks. To start, turn the faucet on so that water can flow through. Next, locate the ice blockage and carefully apply heat to the pipe. Some safe heating options include blow dryers, heat tape, and warm towels.

5. Call us

In the event that you are unable to thaw the pipe, call a professional as soon as possible. In addition to locating all leaks and blockages, we will repair or replace damaged pipes to prevent the problem from getting worse.  

When you can’t keep your indoor space warm, the risk of frozen pipes will increase substantially. To ensure that your heating service is up and running all year long, turn to the specialists at Kraft Heating. As a leading HVAC contractor in North Pole, AK, this team offers comprehensive care to install, maintain, repair, and replace heating equipment—including furnaces and boilers. Visit this provider online to learn more about these heating services or call (907) 488-8989 to request assistance.