In the winter, almost every homeowner in Springfield, IL worries about frozen pipes as well as the potential water damage that they can cause. With winter lows averaging around 19 degrees, there’s good reason for concern. According to research from the University of Illinois, water pipes in unheated areas consistently form ice when temperatures dip below 20 degrees. Here’s what you can do to prevent water damage during the next cold snap.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
Due to the potential for catastrophic water damage, protecting your pipes from extreme weather is your best bet. Follow these few simple, inexpensive steps to avoid costly complications this winter.
- Let your hot and cold taps drip to prevent dangerous high-pressure conditions.
- Keep undersink cabinet doors open to let warm air flow around the pipes.
- Insulate pipes that pass through crawlspaces or unheated areas.
- Seal air leaks that affect spaces where plumbing lines are located.
- If you won’t be home, set the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees.
- Disconnect all hoses hooked to outdoor spigots before cold weather arrives.
- Consider adding a UL-approved heat strip to pipes that are vulnerable to freezing.
What to Do if Your Pipes Freeze
Frozen water pipes are inconvenient, but the risk of damage increases when the ice melts. As the pipes thaw, the water pressure increases, which leads to bursting. If you notice that there’s no water flowing or that the pressure is lower than normal, open the tap and turn off the water supply at the street before calling your plumber. Plumbing services can safely thaw the ice while protecting your pipes and your home from damage.
If you’re having trouble with frozen pipes, contact HRI Plumbing before the problem worsens. You can learn more about our plumbing services online or by contacting our office. From Jacksonville, call 217-334-4545, or from Springfield, dial 217-334-4540.
