Keep Your Pipes From Freezing near The Woodlands
From the icy conditions of Winter Storm Uri in 2021, homeowners in The Woodlands now realize it’s time to take extra precautions to make sure their homes and plumbing pipes are prepared for freezing temperatures this winter. Bradbury Brothers has compiled some tips from our expert local plumbers that can help keep North Houston area houses warm and safe during cold weather—and we’re always available if you need us!
To prevent your pipes from freezing, here are a few steps you can take:
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses. If you have outdoor faucets, make sure to disconnect and drain any hoses before the winter weather sets in.
- Insulate your pipes. Use insulation sleeves, tape, or heat tape to wrap the pipes, especially those that are exposed to cold air.
- If you have a sprinkler system, drain it. Turn off the water valve to the sprinkler and drain the system to help prevent water from expanding and damaging vulnerable parts of the system.
- Check your thermostat and keep the heat on. Make sure to set the thermostat to a temperature no lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Keep cabinet doors open. If you have pipes in your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, make sure to leave the cabinet doors open to allow the warm air to circulate around the pipes.
- Allow faucets to drip. A slow drip can help prevent the water in the pipes from freezing.
- Seal off drafts. Make sure to seal any gaps or cracks around your doors and windows to prevent cold air from entering your home.
By taking these precautions, you can help prevent your pipes from freezing and avoid costly damage to your home.
What To Do if Your Pipes Freeze
If you suspect that your pipes have frozen, there are a few steps you can take to try to thaw them:
- Keep the faucet open: As the water begins to thaw, it will start to flow through the pipe. Keeping the faucet open will help relieve the pressure and allow the water to flow more easily.
- Use a hair dryer or heat lamp: Carefully apply heat to the frozen section of the pipe using a hair dryer or heat lamp. Do not use an open flame, as this could be dangerous.
- Wrap the pipe with a heating pad or towels soaked in hot water: This can help to gradually thaw the frozen section of the pipe.
If you are unable to thaw the pipes or if you suspect that they have burst, you should shut off the water supply and call the local plumbers at Bradbury Brothers as soon as possible. It’s important to address frozen pipes as soon as possible to prevent damage to your home.
Serving The Woodlands, Magnolia, Spring, Tomball, Conroe and Montgomery, TX Areas
For all your local plumbing service needs Bradbury Brothers Plumbers are available and ready to help.
