Temperature drops in winter not only affect your house, but they also impact your plumbing system. To keep your pipes intact and your home protected, you need to take a few precautionary measures. The below guide breaks down why pipes freeze, how to prevent damage, and how to restore them once they’re already frozen. 

Why Do Pipes Freeze & What Can You Do About It? 

When water inside the plumbing system freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the pipes. With enough stress, it can even cause pipes to burst, leading to hefty repair bills. As such, it’s always best to take steps to prevent freezing in the first place. 

Any exposed pipes are the most susceptible to freezing, so check your crawl spaces and attic. You can then wrap these pipes using insulation, pipe sleeves, and heat tape to make sure they don’t get overly cold. If your pipes do freeze, turn on the faucet and aim a warm hair dryer at the site. 

How Can You Prevent Frozen Pipes? 

One way to prevent pipes from freezing is to block off any sources of cold air within the home. Inspect the plumbing system, dryer vents, pipes, and electrical systems for any small openings. Even a small gap could allow a temperature drop that causes your pipes to freeze. 

Another helpful tip is to remove any hoses that are outside. These hoses connect to pipes inside the home, allowing cold air to escape indoors. Before you put them away for the winter, close the indoor valves and let the water drain out of the outside valve. Don’t forget to drain water from the sprinkler supply line and swimming pool, too. 

Since 1947, the team at Lammel Plumbing Inc. has served residents of Beatrice, NE. Offering commercial and residential plumbing services, they are available 24 hours a day to help with any emergencies that may arise. Some of their most popular offerings include kitchen remodeling, burst pipe assistance, sewer line cleaning, and water heater replacement. To contact them for help with a plumbing system emergency, call 402) 223-4132. You can also visit their website for more information on how they can help.