Protecting Pipes In A Big Chill

A winter wonderland can spell disaster for homeowners. Water expands when it freezes, making for burst pipes, an all-too-common casualty of cold-weather living. Then, when the pipes thaw in an unmonitored home, the now freely running water can quickly soak through walls and floors. A home’s plumbing is even more at risk if the heating system fails.

A few steps can ensure your pipes are in good working order and prevent costly repairs.

For snowbirds and summer-only residents, draining the entire house essentially guarantees there will be no issues with freezing, said Brian D’Italia of North Sea Plumbing. Residents who stay here year-round, however, have to be more vigilant.

First things first, Mr. D’Italia said. “Know where your main water valve is located and do a walk-through with a plumber.”

Checking fluid levels in the heating system and boiler is another good preventative step. And while temperatures are slipping into the teens and lower, it’s not too late to get the boiler serviced.

Don’t forget that outside the house is just as important as indoors in home safety.

“Make sure all outside waters are off—outdoor shower, hose bibs, pool fill and irrigation system,” Mr. D’Italia advised.

Homeowners should also check to make sure snow hasn’t clogged up drainage systems. If the drainage areas around the home are blocked by snow, or even creating puddles, this can freeze and damage pipes as well as cause water to back up into the house.

Matt Gallo of Ricky’s Plumbing in Hampton Bays also recommends putting a special kind of antifreeze in the plumbing system, again with the help of a plumber.

“Pipe insulation is advised as well,” Mr. Gallo said. This can be a DIY endeavor—buy heat tape and foam pipe insulation at a plumbing supply or hardware store and, if your pipes are exposed, wrap them in the insulation.

“It’s about keeping the pipes warm,” Mr. Gallo said simply.

Speaking of heat, sometimes just keeping the house warm can prevent pipes from freezing in low outdoor temperatures. Keep the thermostat above 55 degrees and open cabinet doors under sinks and faucets and near exterior walls to help circulate warm air and keep pipes warmer.

Also close crawl space vents and garage doors, especially if the water heater is in your garage. This all helps keep the heat in and the house warm.

Mr. D’Italia said putting systems in place that help protect pipes from freezing is money well spent.

“Install an automatic leak detection system on your water main,” he recommended. “It will detect any water flow when you are away from the house and will shut off the valve to stop water.”

There are also some handy devices, such as FreezeAlarm, which is hooked up to your phone. In the event that temperatures drop to dangerous levels (or if the electricity goes off), it will call you and you can send a neighbor to the house to prevent damage. “Smart” thermostats are also handy gadgets that allow you to check the heat when you’re away from home.

As always, the best defense to preventing costly damage is a good offense. Schedule annual maintenance inspections and stay on top of your systems before it’s too late.

And if you do suspect a pipe has frozen? Shut off the main valve and call a plumber.