Preventing exterior pipes is very important, if left unnoticed a frozen pipe may burst which can lead to costly repairs. To protect the exterior pipes from freezing cover them with polyethylene pipe insulation and duct tape.Turn the heat on in your home until the entire area gets warm also don’t forget to keep your cabinet doors open. Keep the sinks on so that tiny trickle of water comes out and keeps the pipes from freezing. If the pipes are frozen just keep the heating pad over it and clear the ice.
Keep the Heat On
If you or your tenants leave the home for a long vacation then just make sure that the heat is kept on. In some cases, the tenants will never do this, as a homeowner advises them to leave the heat on when they are away. Heat can help prevent pipes from freezing, and if pipes freeze and burst, it can lead to huge water damage to the property and to their possessions. Set the temperature to 50 F which is good enough to keep the pipes warm and to prevent the pipes from freezing.
Let Your Faucets Drip
When water freezes, it expands the pipelines and puts a lot of pressure on your pipes. If this continues, this pressure eventually causes your pipes to burst. Even a small drip of running water creates friction, which produces a small amount of heat. This heat will make the water hard to form ice blockages. Allowing the faucet to be open will not only prevent the building up of ice and thus keep the pipe from bursting.
Keep Interior Doors Open
Pipes will be usually located in cabinets. When the temperature fluctuates, it’s a good idea to keep these cabinet doors open so that the heat from all the areas of your house can keep the pipes warm as well. By keeping all interior doors open the heat can flow throughout the home.
Seal Cracks and Openings
The cracks in your home’s walls or foundation will allow the cold air which speeds up the freezing process. Check the pipes both in and out for any holes or cracks, if found any seal these with caulk to prevent leaking into your home. Do this for both the interior and exterior walls to prevent leakages, if left untreated it can quickly damage your home, especially during the winter months.
Keep a Steady Thermostat
Maintain your thermostat at a consistent temperature that works day and night. When the cold season begins, the pipes are more likely to freeze. Leave the house’s temperature at 55° F.
Add Extra Insulation
Pipes that are located in areas such as basements or attics, may need extra insulation to keep from freezing. If you experience the problem of freezing anywhere in your home, extra insulation could be the cure. Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to minimize the chances of freezing. This can be an easy solution for pipes that are exposed. Extra insulation can be added to walls and ceilings to keep the pipes warm. Insulation prevents heat loss. By the way, your home gets to stay warm throughout winter.