Single Digit Temperatures Increase of Home Water Damage Disasters from Broken Pipes

The water damage restoration experts at Fire Water Storm Pros see it year-round, both at home and in commercial environments: water leaks, pipe bursts, water damage disasters. But the cold winter months come with extra concern for water-damaged property owners.

Concerned that your pipes may burst or spring a leak? It's time to take action before the next cold front freezes your water lines shut.

Here are some tips for staying safe during cold weather when you're worried about water damage due to frozen water pipes:

- Drain Water Heater. Letting a small amount of water drip from a faucet near a water heater will keep the tank from freezing while saving on electricity costs during extremely cold temperatures. If you have an electric water heater, make sure to disconnect the power source before draining water from the tank.

- Open Cabinet Doors Under sinks. This will allow warm air to circulate and help prevent pipes from freezing.

- Check Pipe Insulation & Weather Stripping. Make sure that your home is properly insulated, especially around water pipes. If you find any gaps or cracks in the insulation, seal them with caulk or insulation foam. You can also use a heat tape or pipe wrap to help keep your water pipes warm.

- Wrap Faucets & Pipes In Newspaper. If you have no other means of insulation, wrapping faucets and exposed water pipes in newspaper can help to some degree. But be aware that this is only a temporary measure that will not prevent water damage in the event of a pipe burst.

- Drain Water From Fixtures. Using water fixtures, such as sinks and bathtubs, can help keep water from freezing during cold spells by allowing water to drain gradually through traps into sewer lines.

- Turn Off & Drain Outdoor Hoses. Letting water drip slowly from outside hoses and pipes can help keep them from freezing and rupturing. You should also turn off your outdoor water supply valves if you live in an extremely cold climate or do not use water outdoors for extended periods of time (i.e., while away on vacation).

- Disconnect Appliance Pipes And Furnace Lines. If you do not plan to use appliances like washing machines or dishwashers during cold weather, it's a good idea to disconnect the water supply hoses. You should also shut off the water supply to your furnace if you're going to be away from home for an extended period of time.

- Keep Pets And Children Away From Frozen Pipes. It goes without saying that you should keep your pets and children away from frozen water pipes, as they are susceptible to bursting.

Water Damage Disasters are Expensive, Keep Your Home and Family Safe This Year

If you follow these tips, you can help minimize the risk of water damage from burst pipes this winter. But even with precautions in place, accidents can happen. So if you do experience water damage due to frozen water pipes, be sure to contact a water damage restoration specialist as soon as possible. They will have the expertise and equipment to quickly assess the damage and begin the water cleanup and restoration process.

 

Water damage can be a costly and time-consuming disaster to deal with, so it's important to take precautions to minimize the risk of water damage in your home. By following the tips above, you can help keep your water pipes from freezing and bursting during cold weather. And if water damage does occur despite your best efforts, be sure to contact a water damage restoration specialist right away for assistance. They will have the experience and expertise necessary to get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.