Winter Storms: Protecting Your Property From Frozen Pipes
12/29/2022 (Permalink)
As 2022 draws to a close, and we're but a few days from January, winter is here and that means cold weather. Cold weather can mean a lot of things to a homeowner, business owner, or property manager, and right at the top of the list for property damage concerns are frozen pipes. Baseboard heat pipes, supply lines, sprinkler heads, and outdoor spickets are just a few areas where a frozen pipe can potentially create extensive damage to a property.
Even a small crack or puncture can lead to hundreds of gallons of water to infiltrate your building. The three common causes of frozen pipes are:
- Quick drops in temperature
- Poor insulation
- A thermostat that is set too low
Consider these preventative measures to help prevent frozen pipes in your property:
- Insulate your pipes. Exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing.
- Seal leaks that allow cold air inside. Look for air leaks around the electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes and use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
- Let water drip. Let warm water drip from a faucet overnight.