Freezing in a pipe is a common problem that occurs in both cold and hot climates. A sudden drop in outside temperature can cause a pipe burst or small cracks in the pipes or water flooding. But there are some simple things that you can do to prevent plumbing pipes from freezing.

Freezing in a pipe is never fun, but it can be prevented with some simple steps. A sudden drop in temperature outside of your home will cause water pressure to decrease and lead toward freezing which could burst pipes or create small cracks that flooding might occur from due too low refrigerant levels. The best way you can protect yourself against this problem? Keep an eye out for changes- such as higher energy bills–that may signal the need for repairs before anything happens!

Steps to prevent frozen pipes:

Frozen water pipes occur in both plastic and copper pipes. Once the temperature starts falling, you should take some measures to keep your pipes warm and water running. Here we mentioned the list of measures that helps to prevent frozen pipes.  

Step 1 – Protect Pipes:

Exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing, and water pipes located in attics or basements may require extra protection. Closing the pipe using heating tape or heating cables will help reduce the risk of water pipes freezing.

Step 2 – Seal leaks:

Seal up cracks or gaps around holes where pipes go through walls or floors, especially where the hole allows cold air inside. Use caulk or spray foam insulation to keep the cold out and fill the gaps.

Step 3 – Protecting External Pipes:

Preventing frozen pipes should be done on the outside as well. Keep the outdoor pipes, valves, and faucets before winter begins. Disconnect the garden hoses and, if possible, close the hoses using the inner valve and drain the water from the hoses leading to the outer hoses. You can protect them by using duct covers throughout the winter months. This reduces the chance of frost at short intervals of pipes inside the house.

Step 4 – Allow the water to drip from a faucet:

Let a small drip of hot and warm water overnight, if you notice temperatures start to fall. A small drop of running water through the pipe helps to prevent the pipes from freezing. A small drop of water from faucets protects pipes in two ways. First, it prevents pressure from building up inside pipes. Second, it creates a constant flow of water through pipes that can prevent freezing pipes.

Step 5 – Adjust the thermostat:

Keeping the thermostat at the same temperature day and night will decrease the risk of frozen pipes. It also helps to reduce the pressure in the furnace, during the intense cold temperature.

Step 6 – Electric Heat Pad:

The best prevention against frozen pipes is to keep them warm adequately to stay above the freezing point. An electric heat pad is the best protection during cold climates. If pipes freeze or burst just wrap the pipes using an electric heat pad. It helps to prevent pipes from freezing.  

Step 7 – Apply heat in the pipes:

Apply heat to the pipes until the full water pressure is restored. Make sure all the other faucets in your home whether you have additional frozen water pipes. If one pipe is frozen that may cause other pipes to freeze.

Step 8 – Long-term Protection:

Permanent protection is the best choice for preventing frozen pipes. Call a professional plumber to start to assess your situation and make a recommendation.  With the help of a professional plumber, start insulating a crawl space, and replacing standard outdoor pipes with frost-proof models.