How to Keep Your Pipes From Bursting During the Winter Storm
As the winter storm slowly approaches, we want to take all precautions we can. From stocking up on groceries and batteries to ensuring that your home remains in one piece….
Getty Images Stock Photo
Getty Images Stock PhotoAs the winter storm slowly approaches, we want to take all precautions we can. From stocking up on groceries and batteries to ensuring that your home remains in one piece. One key thing to keep an eye on is those pipes in your home. It's about to reach freezing temperatures, and the last thing we want is for them to burst.
According to the National Weather Service, pipes located in unheated areas of your home are the most vulnerable to bursting when temperatures reach freezing. When frozen pipes thaw, the pressure can cause them to crack, which can lead to flooding inside your home.
Here are a few tips that professionals recommend you follow to prevent this problem during a winter storm. Better to be safe than sorry!
Ways to Prevent Your Pipes From Bursting
- Insulate exposed pipes within your home
- Seal any gaps around vents and doors
- Keep the indoor temperature at or above 55 degrees (if possible)
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to help circulate warmer air around your plumbing (especially in your bathrooms and kitchen)
- Leave your faucet on a steady trickle, at least one, overnight, so that it prevents freezing
- If you are to thaw your pipes out, use a hairdryer, wrap them in a hot towel, or apply a salt solution to the pipes
- Use heat tape if you have that readily available
During this winter storm, be sure to be prepared and safe. Have all of your emergency kits ready to go, have your batteries in case of power outages, and stock up on plenty of blankets and things to keep you warm. Download our app and follow your local weatherman to ensure you are up to date with your local weather updates.
