No homeowner wants to deal with the headache and expense of burst pipes in winter. There are a few smart ways to keep your pipes safe from the cold, whether by stocking up on fuel for your home heating system to keep temperatures up or by shutting off the water before you leave for your vacation. The four additional tips below will help keep your plumbing in prime condition all season long. 

How to Avoid Frozen Pipes This Winter 

1. Leave Sink Cabinet Doors Open

One of the easiest ways to protect your plumbing is to open the cabinets under the bathroom and kitchen sinks. This promotes better circulation of warm air from your home heating system to your pipes, preventing water from freezing. 

2. Keep the Heat Up

It’s tempting to save money on heating costs by lowering the temperature, but don’t go too far. Set your home heating system to maintain a temperature of at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as this should be warm enough to prevent freezing. Have your furnace serviced and fuel delivered at the start of the season to make sure it will keep working smoothly all winter long.

3. Use Pipe Insulation

Many houses have water pipes that are partly exposed to the elements. Even pipes within your home may be installed in areas that aren’t well-insulated or that tend to be colder, like basements. Locate this plumbing and install heating tape to the pipes to prevent freezing. You can also add insulation to limit heat loss. Alternatively, talk to a professional about installing registers or a home heating system that will reach these vulnerable areas. 

4. Leave the Faucet on a Little

When a water faucet goes unused for a few days, the pressure can build up, making the pipe more likely to burst. Minimize your chances of a having a pipe burst on you by leaving the faucet on just enough to create a slow, pressure-relieving drip. 

 

The best way to protect against burst pipes is to ensure your home heating system is running properly. To get ready for the season, contact Anderson Oil Company in New London County, CT. Their knowledgeable, experienced technicians offer prepaid fixed prices and price cap 10-month budget plans to keep heating costs stable all year round. Call (860) 464-7628 or visit the website for information on their delivery programs and pricing options.