Prevent Pipes From Freezing

During these cold days of January and February, it’s important to be mindful of your home, your pipes and the temperature you keep your house at during both the day and evening. Clearly, simple mistakes can cause a great deal of damage due to broken pipes in your home. Please take note of these simple items that can help you avoid pipes from freezing:

• Pipe Insulation – Your pipes are susceptible to damage when the temperature drops to 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below. It’s always a good idea to take the extra caution to insulate your pipes in a home in lower Fairfield County, CT.  This simple step can help protect your pipes and avoid any possible “bursting” issues. You can insulate the pipes where they are in unheated areas and more likely to freeze by wrapping the pipe with insulation tubes made of polyethylene. You can also use heat tape for a temporary fix.

• Let faucets drip – Overnight the temperatures drop below freezing during the harsh winter months like now and in February. Another great way to illuminate the pressure build up between the cold weather and possible ice is to let the faucets drip. I would also suggest that you leave the cabinet doors open and let as much heat from the house be exposed to the pipes. Together this will help to eliminate any major burst in your home.

• Open Cabinets – Again, this is a great way to keep the sink base along the exterior walls and neighboring walls warm. Simply leave the cabinet doors open.

• Exterior Cracks – Note any holes or cracks outside along the foundation wall. Maybe due to a rodent or rotten wood. Caulk these areas to help stop the cold elements from coming into your home. Again, these leaks can cause problems when the weather is extremely cold.

• Seal off Crawl Spaces – Another area where cold air can easily sneak into your home and cause your pipes to freeze. Be sure any crawl space areas are sealed with appropriate insulation to help minimize the cold air around your pipes.

• Thermostat – Be sure to keep the thermostats in your home set at a constant temperature both in the morning and night time during colder temperatures to help prevent a burst pipe. The cost of oil today is much more affordable than the cost to replace a damaged pipe. Your home should not be left any lower than 55 degrees F during the winter months.

If you need help with weather-proofing your home for the winter or assistance with pipes issues please give us a ring.  has been serving lower Fairfield County, CT for over 20 years. We are licensed professionals who provide only quality workmanship with each of our jobs. Learn more at www.executivecraftsman.com or call us at 203-324-6383.

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