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When winter comes, the last thing you want is your pipes freezing on you — but knowing the basic measures to take to prevent frozen pipes will help you minimize any damage.

 As one of Dayton, Ohio’s leading choice in plumbers, we want to help you prevent frozen pipes in winter to save you unnecessarily costly repairs down the line. In this blog, we’ll discuss what can happen when pipes freeze, the signs that frozen water might be in the system, and the best tips to prevent frozen pipes. 

What Happens When Pipes Freeze?

Frozen pipes can occur anywhere in your home but are most likely in unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages. Pipes located in exterior walls are also at high risk since they are more exposed to cold air. Even pipes running through cabinets or behind walls can be vulnerable if the temperature drops low enough.

When the temperature drops significantly, the water inside your pipes can freeze. The freezing process doesn’t happen all at once. It typically starts when the outside temperature reaches 32°F (0°C) or below, and it can take several hours or days for pipes to lock up. However, once they do freeze, the damage can happen quickly, and you could be looking at costly repairs if you don’t act fast.

Water naturally expands when it freezes, putting immense pressure on the pipe. If the pressure becomes too high, the pipe can crack or even burst, allowing water to escape and flood your home. The problem is that a small crack in a pipe can quickly lead to significant water damage, especially if the water isn’t noticed right away.

Signs Your Pipes Are Frozen

It’s not always obvious when a pipe has frozen, but there are a few signs to look out for: 

1. No Water Flow or Low Water Pressure: The loss of water pressure or a complete lack of water in your faucets is a major sign of frozen pipes. If only one faucet is affected, the problem could be localized to the pipe feeding that fixture. If multiple faucets are affected, there’s likely an issue with the main supply line.
   
   
2. Frost on Pipes: Frost forming on the surface of pipes is a clear indicator they are frozen. So, it’s essential to inspect pipes, especially those in unheated areas, for frost, ice, or condensation.
   
   
3. Strange Sounds: Frozen pipes often make unusual sounds when water is run through them. If you hear gurgling or clanging noises, this could indicate air trapped in the pipes due to ice buildup.
   
   
4. Visible Cracks or Bulges in Pipes: A frozen pipe can sometimes have visible damage, such as cracks or bulges. The pipe’s material can only withstand so much pressure before it gives way, and if you notice visible damage, the pipe may have already burst.

Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Preventing your pipes from freezing is the most effective way to avoid costly repairs and water damage. Here are practical steps to winterize your pipes and keep them from freezing during cold weather:

Regular Servicing

Before winter sets in, schedule a professional inspection to ensure your plumbing is in good condition. A plumber can identify any weak spots in your pipes and recommend solutions before the freezing temperatures arrive. Routine servicing may include checking for leaks, ensuring proper insulation, and replacing worn-out parts.

Insulating Your Pipes

Learning how to winterize pipes—especially those running along exterior walls or through uninsulated spaces—is valuable DIY knowledge. You can do this by insulating them. This prevents heat from escaping, keeping pipes warmer during the colder months. You can use foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or fiberglass wrap to cover pipes in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

Learn How to Shut Off the Main Water Supply

If a pipe does freeze and burst, you’ll want to act quickly to minimize damage. Knowing how to turn off the main water supply to your home is crucial. This valve is typically found in the basement, near the water meter, or on an exterior wall. Turning off the water at the main valve will stop the water flow through the pipes and prevent flooding until you can address the frozen pipe.

Keep Water Flowing Through the Pipes

If you suspect temperatures will fall below freezing for an extended period, allow faucets to drip slowly. Letting water run through the pipes helps keep the pressure from building up inside them and reduces the risk of freezing. You don’t need to run the water continuously, but a slow drip can keep things flowing when the temperatures drop significantly. Keep cold and hot water running if possible, as hot water pipes are also susceptible to freezing.

Turn the Water off If You Are Away

If you’re leaving your home for an extended period, take precautions to winterize your plumbing. Turn off the main water supply and drain your pipes by opening faucets to let any remaining water flow out. Additionally, consider draining your water heater. By taking these steps, you’ll reduce the likelihood of a frozen or burst pipe while you’re away. Make sure your home’s heating system is still operational and that temperatures will remain above freezing.

Encourage Warm Air Flow Around Pipes

Pipes in areas exposed to the outside elements, such as those in attics or under sinks, benefit from warm air circulation. Open cabinet doors in kitchens and bathrooms, especially if the sinks are along exterior walls, to allow warm air from the rest of your home to circulate and prevent your pipes from freezing.

Seal Gaps and Cracks Around Pipes

Another way to protect your pipes from freezing is by sealing any cracks or gaps in the walls, floors, or around windows and doors. Cold air entering through these openings can lead to a drop in temperature in certain areas, making the pipes more vulnerable. Use caulk or foam sealant to close any gaps, particularly around areas where pipes enter the home. Additionally, consider adding weatherstripping to doors and windows to prevent drafts.

Prevent Frozen Pipes in Ohio

The surest prevention is intervention, so let A-Abel take a look at your home’s pipes. This way, you can go through winter knowing your plumbing and hot water systems are ready for the season ahead. We offer affordable rates and expert guidance that can save you any unneeded and costly repairs. Contact us today and see how A-Abel can make it a smooth winter.