The Holidays Should Be Warm and Fuzzy, Not Frozen!
As the temperatures drop across the country, people are bundling up in warm coats, thick gloves, and fluffy scarves. When thoughts turn towards the holidays, the worries of everyday life tend to fade into the background. Homeowners should take a few moments to consider how some simple preventative actions could save the holidays from being ruined by a plumbing disaster. Here are some easy steps to take to ensure the holidays don't get washed out by frozen pipes!
Like a Parka for Your Pipes
Pipe insulation serves several purposes. For cold water pipes, insulation prevents what's known as "sweating" or condensation buildup. Controlling moisture is critical in maintaining thermal efficiency, which prevents mold and mildew and saves energy costs. Conversely, insulating hot water pipes will prevent the warmth from escaping, which is also a money saver.
Here are some ways to protect pipes from the cold:
- Use inexpensive foam wrap around pipes. Make sure seams are secured with duct tape.
- If possible, add foam insulation between exposed pipes and exterior walls.
- Install frost-proof spigots outside. A more budget-friendly option is spigot covers.
- Make sure the water supply to outside spigots is turned off.
Sometimes a Drip Can Be a Good Thing
Normally, a drip means there's a problem. Maybe a gasket is worn out? Maybe there's a crack somewhere? Maybe one of the kids just got careless? There are all possible situations where seeing a regular drip is a sign of trouble. But sometimes, when the weather turns frigid, a drip can be a homeowner's best friend.
Once the temperature drops below 32 degrees, stationary water will freeze solid - it's science. However, moving water is much less likely to freeze. So, to keep things moving along, homeowners should open faucets throughout the house just a little bit so there's a barely noticeable drip. This includes the kitchen, the bathroom sink, the tub, the sink in the laundry room, the half bath in the basement that never gets used, etc. To avoid the guilt of wasting water, homeowners can place a container under each faucet and use the collected water to clean or nourish plants.
Weathering the High and Lows
What's the perfect temperature for inside a home? That is a question that has plagued scholars, confounded homeowners, and caused marital distress for decades. The logical goal is to keep the home comfortable for all inhabitants while maintaining optimal energy efficiency. This can become difficult when the temperatures drop below freezing.
Experts agree keeping the thermostat at a temperature of no less than 55 degrees is best to keep exterior pipes from freezing. Some homeowners may find this to be a bit too cold. Still, there are plenty of benefits to lower temperatures, including less work for the heat pump or furnace. Plus, the refrigerator and freezer can keep things cold more easily, plants need less water in cooler temperatures, and people tend to sleep better.
Homeowners should contact a trusted plumber to discuss the perfect temperature for their home, learn more ways to keep pipes from freezing, and know who to call if a pipe should burst.
About Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service
Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service is Evansville’s emergency plumber! Serving their neighbors since 1920, they emphasize training, honesty, and professionalism while providing homeowners with practical, budget-friendly, and long-lasting solutions. Make them the first call in when in need of plumbing services.
