Winter Plumbing Prep: How to Avoid Frozen Pipes in Colorado Springs
Winter in Colorado Springs is beautiful, but it can bring challenges for your home’s plumbing system, especially as temperatures plunge well below freezing. Frozen pipes are a common issue many homeowners face in our area, leading to potential water damage, costly repairs, and an inconvenience no one wants to deal with in the middle of winter. At Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical, we want to help you protect your home this season with a few simple yet effective winter plumbing tips.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Problem
When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands, putting pressure on the pipe walls. Over time, this pressure can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to leaks, flooding, and significant water damage. Unfortunately, this can happen both inside and outside your home if pipes are left uninsulated or exposed to freezing air. But don’t worry; there are several ways you can winterize your plumbing system to prevent these costly issues.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes located in unheated areas of your home, such as crawl spaces, garages, attics, and exterior walls, are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Here’s how to keep them warm:
Pipe Insulation: Wrap pipes in foam pipe insulation or, for an even warmer option, consider using heat tape or heat cables specifically designed for pipes.
Seal Off Cold Air: Use caulk or spray foam to seal cracks and gaps in walls, floors, and ceilings, especially near pipes. This helps keep the cold air out and the warmth in.
2. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses and Protect Faucets
Leaving hoses attached to outdoor faucets can cause residual water to freeze and put strain on the faucet, potentially leading to damage in your home’s plumbing system.
Disconnect and Drain Hoses: Always disconnect hoses and drain any water left in them. Store them indoors for the winter.
Cover Outdoor Faucets: Use an outdoor faucet cover to help insulate and protect exposed spigots. In extremely cold conditions, consider adding additional insulation to any exposed outdoor pipes connected to these faucets.
3. Keep Indoor Temperatures Consistent
Maintaining a steady, warm temperature inside your home is one of the most effective ways to prevent pipes from freezing.
Set Your Thermostat: Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even if you’re away. The small cost of maintaining a warmer indoor temperature is far less than the cost of repairing a burst pipe.
Open Cabinet Doors: In bathrooms or kitchens with pipes on exterior walls, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
4. Let Faucets Drip During Cold Spells
A small drip from your faucets may seem counterintuitive, but it can prevent pipes from freezing. Here’s how this works:
Relieve Pressure in the System: Allowing a slow trickle of water through faucets—especially those connected to pipes in exterior walls—reduces pressure in the system. This keeps water moving, making it less likely to freeze.
Target At-Risk Pipes: If you know of pipes that have frozen in the past, prioritize letting those faucets drip during particularly cold nights.
5. Locate Your Main Water Shutoff Valve
Knowing how to quickly turn off your water in the event of a burst pipe can save your home from significant water damage.
Find the Valve Before You Need It: In most homes, the main water shutoff is located near where the water line enters your home—often in a basement or utility room. Ensure all household members know where it is and how to use it.
Consider a Tag or Marker: Place a visible tag or label on your shutoff valve to make it easy to find in an emergency.
6. Consider Installing Pipe Heaters
For pipes that are particularly vulnerable or located in extremely cold areas, installing pipe heaters can provide extra protection.
Electric Heat Tape or Cables: These devices wrap around the pipe and generate heat when plugged in, keeping the pipes warm even in freezing temperatures.
Consult a Professional: Pipe heaters can be a reliable option, but they must be installed and used correctly. If you’re considering this option, our team at Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical can help you choose the best solution for your home and ensure safe installation.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
Even with precautions in place, sometimes pipes freeze due to extremely cold weather. If you suspect a frozen pipe:
Turn Off the Water: Immediately turn off the water supply to avoid a burst.
Gently Thaw the Pipe: Use a hair dryer or wrap the pipe in warm towels to gradually thaw it. Avoid using open flames or high-heat devices, as they can damage the pipe or create a fire hazard.
Call a Professional: If you’re unable to locate or thaw the frozen pipe, call a plumber to safely address the issue before it worsens.
Winterize with Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical
Winterizing your plumbing system doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and taking these preventive steps can save you from costly repairs and headaches. At Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical, we’re here to help Colorado Springs homeowners stay safe, warm, and dry all winter long.
If you’re ready to prepare your plumbing system for winter, or if you need assistance with a frozen pipe, give us a call! We offer expert advice and reliable service to keep your home protected all year round.
Contact us today for help with winter plumbing preparation and other home services!
