How to Prevent Pipes from Bursting and Breaking

You probably know that many components work in unison to create a safe property in your home. All aspects are crucial, from having the right water heater to ensuring that all pipes are in working order. With particular respect to the latter, your pipes can be somewhat vulnerable, even with the best of protection.

However, don’t let this dissuade you. Pipes can burst, but they can be shielded from harm if you take the right steps. Depending on the time of the year, some of these steps may be more intricate than others. As long as you take preventive measures, your pipes will not burst outright.

Let’s learn more about how to prevent pipes from bursting.

1. Pipe Insulation

Once summer comes to a close and the colder weather comes in, your home’s components may be extra vulnerable. This may put them in a precarious situation as far as pipes go. Should you not take the right action promptly, they may become subject to harm. This is where the power of insulation comes in.

Insulating your pipes is extremely important, especially when it comes to the colder weather. The potential for pipes to burst during the winter is increased if they are exposed outright to colder temperatures. Look for the right types of insulation material at your local department store to stay on the safe side of things. If you aren’t an expert, contact a plumber like Gold Medal Plumbing and Drain for help.

2. Faucet Drip

You may be inclined to just shut your faucets off in your home once they are not in use. This is the predominant line of thinking, and it makes sense for the most part. On the other hand, think about the faucets connected to pipes that are not insulated. These faucets could increase the potential for the connection pipe to explode.

To keep your connected pipes in good working condition, leave your faucets on just a bit. By allowing them to drip just a bit, the exposed pipes will not freeze in their state. Bursting can be an incredibly challenging situation to deal with, especially if you do not know how to combat it. A bit of dripping goes a long way.

3. Heating Tape

One of the best things about insulation is that it comes in multiple formats. For example, you may purchase a softer covering, which protects the pipe entirely. Another excellent choice for pipe insulation comes via heating tape. Take a look at where your pipes are exposed, and get ready to place some tape on them.

This tactic works great for exterior-based pipes or pipes in unheated areas within the home. If you are thinking about what sort of tape to use, you generally have two options to pick from. Many homeowners often choose manual heating tape, while others may use the advanced, self-monitoring variation.

4. Cover Crawl Spaces

Another important area of the home that should be considered is the crawl space. Crawl spaces could lead to pipes in areas that are generally exposed. As a result, the cold air that flows into these areas could put your pipes into a situation where they may burst.

A great way to prevent this from happening is to simply seal away the space’s opening. Foam is an excellent material to use, and it can cover these crawl spaces without much issue. For your pipes to stay protected year-round, make sure to use as much insulation as you can!

5. Thermostat Temperature

The overall temperature within your home is also crucial to take into consideration as well. Sometimes you may find that it is necessary to lower the overall temperature within your property. However, this may affect the pipes in your home in a negative capacity. To keep things in check, just do not reduce the thermostat’s temperature.

Eventually, you will be leaving your home to conduct your day-to-day activities. Try to keep the thermostat’s temperature no higher than twelve degrees Celsius when this occurs. That way, your pipes will be sustained in the hours you are away!

6. Garage Doors

In some homes, you may see that pipes are running through the garage portion of the property. These types of pipes could also be somewhat exposed. As a result, make sure to keep your garage door closed at all times when not in use.

7. Cabinet Doors

At other times, exposed pipes may be running inside the cabinets within your kitchen or bathroom. These are some of the more exposed pipes to be aware of within the property. Keep these doors closed when they are not in use. By following these tips, you will ensure that your pipes remain in good condition for the years to come!