Cold temperatures have the potential to wreak havoc on household plumbing — not the least of which is burst pipes. When this occurs, household residents typically have to either manage without water for a period of time or temporarily relocate. Fortunately, homeowners can adopt proactive strategies designed to minimize the damage. Here’s what homeowners in Massachusetts need to know about preventing and managing burst pipes.
Why Pipes Burst
When the mercury drops below freezing, the risk of burst pipes becomes a serious concern for homeowners in cold weather climates. This occurs because water freezes when it expands, which can lead to added pressure that causes pipes to crack and break. When this happens, extensive water damage, the need for costly repairs, and serious inconvenience for household residents are the most common results.
Water expands when it freezes, which creates pressure within the pipes, frequently leading to cracks or bursting. Pipes in uninsulated areas are the most vulnerable, such as those located in basements, crawl spaces, and even attics. However, in extremely cold weather, even insulated pipes can be affected.
Prevention Strategies
It may be necessary to use a combination of strategies for optimal protection during cold snaps. Proactive measures homeowners can take to minimize damage caused by extreme temperatures include the following:
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Wrapping exposed pipes in foam insulation, pipe sleeves, or heat tape and cables provides a thermal barrier between the pipes and the freezing air. Foam insulation is the easiest to install as well as the most cost-effective, while heat tape is particularly useful for use in extreme conditions because it works to maintain a consistent temperature no matter what the weather is doing. Whichever type you choose, proper installation is key to protecting your pipes.
Seal Drafts
Sealing cracks and gaps in walls, doors, and windows with caulking or weatherstripping helps prevent cold air from reaching your pipes. As an added bonus, you’ll be able to maintain a more stable temperature in the interior of your home, which will contribute to household comfort and save you money on utility costs.
Let Faucets Drip
Water is less likely to freeze when it’s moving than when it’s standing still. On cold nights, open your taps enough to allow a slow, steady trickle of water. This is particularly important when pipes are exposed or poorly insulated during periods of extreme cold.
Maintain a Warm Indoor Temperature
Keeping your indoor thermostat at a consistent temperature, even at night while your household is asleep, helps ensure that the ambient temperature around your pipes remains above freezing. If you have to go away for any period of time, leave your thermostat at 55 degrees Fahrenheit or above.
Open Cabinet Doors
Keep cabinet doors open on cold nights to allow warm air to circulate under sinks, particularly in those situated along exterior walls.
Shut Off Outdoor Water Sources
Turn off exterior faucets to prevent freezing and pressure buildup. Also, drain and disconnect hoses and put them away in a dry, safe location for the winter.
Monitor Weather Forecasts
Stay alert for warnings of cold weather by paying attention to your evening news forecast. You can also sign up for weather alerts on your smartphone.
Know the Location of Your Shut-Off Valve
In the event of a burst pipe, it’s imperative that you shut off your water as quickly as possible to minimize damage. Knowing where your shut-off valve is ahead of time will save you significant precious time. Practice turning the valve on and off, and if it’s difficult to turn, place a shut-off tool or wrench nearby.
How to Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes
If you suspect that a pipe is beginning to freeze, use a handheld hair dryer to gently warm it up after turning off the small valve beneath the sink. Using the highest heat setting, hold the hairdryer several inches away from the pipe, and slowly move it along the section that you need to warm up. In the absence of a hairdryer, you can use a small space heater — but avoid leaving it unattended so that it doesn’t pose a fire hazard. Taking these steps substantially reduces the risk of burst pipes if freezing does occur.
If your pipes have already frozen, shut off the main water supply to keep damage to a minimum.
How to Tell if Pipes Have Burst
Telltale signs that your pipes have burst include strange hissing or gurgling noises, puddles and/or water stains on ceilings and walls, cracks or issues in exposed pipes, unexplained dampness or mold infestations where pipes run, and water that has a foul taste or odor. Noticeable change in water pressure may also be part of the picture. Additionally, your water bill may increase with no discernible reason, and if your household has an electric water pump, you may see a rise in electricity costs as well.
If you suspect that your pipes have burst, contact a professional plumbing company immediately.
Post-Winter Inspection
Once winter has passed and temperatures have stabilized, have your plumbing system inspected to determine if any undetected damage has occurred. Keep in mind that catching emerging issues before they evolve into serious problems saves time, aggravation, and money. Minor cracks or other weaknesses in pipes may not be immediately apparent.
Long-Term Solutions
Playing the long game when it comes to safeguarding your plumbing from the ravages of cold temperatures will protect you from a range of aggravating situations and unanticipated repair bills. If you live in a vintage property or if you’ve been having to schedule plumbing services more often than once per year, it may be time to give your plumbing infrastructure a makeover. For the best protection against extreme cold, consider replacing your old pipes with materials such as copper or PEX that are resistant to cold temperatures.
Installing a smart leak detector allows you to know about leaks before they develop into major problems. These devices monitor water pressure and flow to identify any areas of concern. Some are even equipped to shut off your water valve if they sense indications of a leak.
Those in areas that experience serious extreme cold can also help safeguard their plumbing systems by thoroughly winterizing their homes.
Contact DeWolfe Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for More Information
Residents of West Boylston, MA and the surrounding communities have been relying on DeWolfe Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to provide them with quality home services since 1931 — that’s nearly a hundred years! Along with a full spectrum of plumbing services such as pipe repair for burst pipes during winter, we’re also ready and able to take care of all of your HVAC needs. Members of our Home Care Club have the peace of mind of knowing that their household systems are well-maintained and running smoothly all year round.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at DeWolfe Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to find out more about protecting your plumbing system during cold weather, to schedule service, or to request a quote.
