With record-breaking freezing temperatures ahead of Southern California, those of us not used to such climate in this corner of the country need to be prepared. More specifically, there are steps we have to take not just to stay warm but to ensure our home is not adversely affected by the cold temperatures –– starting by the very pipes that sustain our homes. Let us tell you about the dangers of frozen pipes and what you can do about it.
The Dangers of Freezing Temperatures
When water freezes, it expands, and this expansion can cause pipes to burst. When a pipe bursts, it can cause significant water damage to your home. Water damage can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and the loss of personal possessions.
How to Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing
The good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing. Here are some tips:
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Keep the heat on: One of the easiest ways to prevent your pipes from freezing is to keep the heat on in your home. Even if you are leaving your home for an extended period, keep the heat on to prevent your pipes from freezing.
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Insulate Your Pipes: Another way to prevent pipes from freezing is to insulate them. You can purchase foam insulation that wraps around your pipes, keeping them warm and preventing them from freezing.
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Keep Cabinet Doors Open: If you have pipes in cabinets, such as under your kitchen sink, open the cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
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Drip Your Faucets: Allowing your faucets to drip can prevent your pipes from freezing. When water is flowing through the pipes, it is less likely to freeze.
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Seal Cracks and Holes: Seal any cracks and holes in your home’s exterior that could allow cold air to enter. Cold air can cause the temperature in your home to drop, putting your pipes at risk of freezing.
In conclusion, freezing temperatures can cause serious damage to your home’s pipes. To prevent your pipes from freezing, keep the heat on in your home, insulate your pipes, keep cabinet doors open, drip your faucets, and seal any cracks and holes in your home’s exterior. By taking these steps, you can avoid the expense and hassle of dealing with burst pipes and water damage.
Call the Professionals
If any of your pipes freeze or you experience other related issues, trying to fix the problem yourself might create additional problems. Don’t put your household at risk and call a professional instead. Here at Preferred Plumbing and Rooter Services, our team is ready and capable to serve the entire Los Angeles area. Give us a call today: (877) 298-8105.