Tips to Keep Pipes from Freezing

Winter is full force now and most people are into family gatherings, special occasions and focusing on a New Year! At this wonderful time, you do not want to have to worry about busted water pipes, flooding, structural damage or potential mold that can result when the worst happens. Handyman Connection can offer you a few simple precautions and some plumbing maintenance to prevent these disasters.
1- Insulate your Pipes – Exposed pipes are more likely to freeze so insulating your pipes is very important. Before winter arrives, make sure you protect your pipes in the attic or crawl space with an adequate layer of insulation.
2- Disconnect the Garden Hose – Any water left in your hose or pipes that lead outside can potentially freeze and then crack and break from the pressure. Forgetting to disconnect the garden hose can cause these huge problems. Also make sure you shut off the indoor water valve and drain the water to any pipes leading inside.
3- Maintain a Steady Household Temperature – Even though you think turning down the thermostat at night is a good idea to save money, this can be terrible on your pipes. The temperature at night can plummet and if your thermostat is too low, the morning heating system may not be able to bring the heat back up quick enough to prevent the pipes from freezing.
4- Take Precautions before going out of Town – The worst thing to come home to after a trip is a flooded house and repair bills. If you are heading out of town for any length, make sure your house is protected by setting your thermostat no lower than 13 degrees and draining the water system by turning on the faucets and flushing the toilets.
If your pipes do end up bursting, call Handyman Connection so we can send out an experience and qualified plumber to get your situation solved!