What Does Cold Weather Do to Indoor Plumbing?
Cold weather can damage both underground and above-ground pipes. While many people are familiar with the dangers of a burst pipe, cold weather can also prevent the plumbing system from working well daily. To prevent clogs and cold water, homeowners must keep a certain heat level inside the system.
Inexpensive Heat Circulation
Homeowners do not necessarily need to pay for extra heat to keep the pipes from freezing. Opening cabinets can let indoor heat into the plumbing system without touching the thermostat. Exposed pipes are frequently found underneath the kitchen and bathroom sinks. For approximately eight months out of the year, these pipes are warm enough to function fully. Once the temperature drops below 40 degrees, homeowners must pay attention to any signs of pipe damage.
When cabinets are closed, outdoor temperatures are trapped inside the plumbing system. Even leaving them open just a bit will help circulate warmth so that water can continue to flow.
Disconnecting the Hose
Outdoor pipes are much more likely to freeze in the first month of winter, and some of the most vulnerable piping spots are located in the garage. Disconnecting the hose and any outdoor faucets can prevent future pipe bursts.
Freezing pipes tend to expand and can cause pressure to build inside the plumbing system, causing the metal to burst. This is potentially dangerous for household members and a costly problem to fix. Water damage alone can cost thousands of dollars, and to avoid extreme pressure, homeowners must drain any remaining water from the hose before the first frost.
To turn off outdoor plumbing, homeowners must first switch the shutoff valve. This is usually found near the water meter or at the edge of the property. Once the tip of the hose is unscrewed, all remaining water can be drained.
Pipe Blankets
Pipe insulation is one of the most effective ways to keep pipes from freezing. Insulation is usually placed in attics, crawl spaces, garages, and unfinished basements. When a sleeve of dense material covers the pipe, it is sometimes called a pipe blanket, which keeps the plumbing system cozy.
Several materials are available depending on the home and budget. Polyisocyanurate is typically used for colder areas with long winters. It is fire-resistant and used to insulate pipes in residential and industrial buildings. Polystyrene sounds similar but is more likely to disintegrate over time.
Fiberglass is commonly used for insulation because it is inexpensive and effective. It is also non-combustible, making it safer in the long run but not during installation. Since fiberglass can cause cuts and skin irritation, a highly skilled plumber is recommended for insulation installation.
Insulating pipes is also beneficial during the summer. The same pipes that freeze during the winter also overheat during July and August. Using a pipe blanket protects direct heat from warming indoor water.
About Master Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling
Master Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling specializes in pipe insulation for Cedar Rapids, IA, residents. With years of experience, their highly trained plumbers know how to solve your issues quickly and for the long term. Contact them today to schedule plumbing services to prepare your home this winter!
