8 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes in the Winter

Licensed Plumbers In Lawrence, KS and The Surrounding Area

blue duck

How To Prevent Pipes From Freezing

how to prevent frozen pipes in the winter

Winter in Johnson County, KS, can be harsh, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing system if you’re not prepared. Frozen pipes are not just inconvenient; they can lead to costly repairs and significant water damage if they burst. To help you protect your home this winter, here are eight essential tips to prevent your pipes from freezing.

If you find yourself dealing with frozen or burst pipes, Blue Duck Plumbing is the best place to call in Johnson County and the surrounding areas. Our expert plumbers can also inspect your system to catch any small issues before they become bigger problems. Give us a call for all your plumbing needs!

Call (785) 856-1152

1. Insulate Your Pipes

    One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate them, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces. Foam pipe insulation, pipe sleeves, or even newspaper can provide that extra layer of protection.

    For pipes located in especially vulnerable areas, such as uninsulated exterior walls, consider upgrading the insulation to provide better protection against extreme cold.

    2. Seal Cracks and Gaps

      Cold air seeping into your home through cracks or gaps can freeze pipes in no time. Check for openings around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home. Sealing these gaps with caulk or insulation foam can prevent cold air from getting in and causing pipes to freeze.

      This is especially important for pipes running through exterior walls or near unheated areas like the garage.

      3. Let Faucets Drip

        Keeping a small trickle of water running through your faucets during freezing temperatures helps relieve pressure in the plumbing system and reduces the risk of frozen pipes. It’s a simple step that can make all the difference when temperatures plummet.

        4. Keep Your Thermostat Consistent

          Many homeowners lower their thermostats at night to save energy, but this can increase the risk of frozen pipes. Instead, keep your thermostat set to the same temperature during the day and night. Most experts recommend keeping it no lower than 55°F during the winter.

          This small change can help protect your pipes from freezing while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.

          5. Open Cabinets to Let Warm Air Circulate

            Pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks are often located near exterior walls, making them more susceptible to freezing. To combat this, open cabinet doors to allow warm air from your home to circulate around these pipes. Every little bit of heat helps during cold snaps!

            6. Close Garage Doors

              If you have water supply lines running through your garage, keeping the garage door closed can help protect those pipes from freezing. This is particularly important during extremely cold weather when every degree counts.

              7. Locate and Label Your Water Shut-Off Valve

                Knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located can save you precious time in case of a burst pipe. Consider labeling it, so anyone in your home can easily find it in an emergency. If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly can prevent significant damage.

                This extra step of labeling the valve ensures you can act fast when it matters most.

                8. Have a Plumber Inspect Your System

                  Finally, one of the best ways to prevent frozen pipes and ensure your plumbing system is in top shape is to have a professional inspection. At Blue Duck Plumbing, our experienced plumbers can perform a thorough plumbing inspection to identify any potential weak spots in your plumbing system before winter hits. We’ll make sure that any small plumbing issues are addressed, so they don’t turn into major problems down the line.

                  If your pipes do freeze, thaw them safely using a hair dryer, heating pad, or space heater. Never use open flames, as they can damage the pipes or cause a fire. And if your pipes burst, shut off the main water supply immediately and call Blue Duck Plumbing.

                  At Blue Duck Plumbing, we’re committed to helping homeowners in Johnson County, KS, and the surrounding areas protect their homes from winter plumbing disasters. Whether you’re dealing with frozen pipes or want a professional inspection to prevent future issues, we’re here to help. Contact us today for all your plumbing concerns!

                  By following these tips, you can keep your pipes safe this winter and avoid costly repairs. And remember, if you need professional plumbing assistance, Blue Duck Plumbing is just a phone call away.

                  Call (785) 856-1152

                  Ready for the Comfort of Five Star Service?

                  Contact the experts at Blue Duck today to schedule your next appointment!

                  Book Online