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Winterizing Your Pipes: How To Prevent Plumbing Disasters

Even in states like Texas, where winters are mild and freezing temperatures are rare, winter can pose a significant threat to your plumbing system.

When temperatures drop, water can freeze inside your pipes, causing them to burst and wreak havoc on your home. Preparing your plumbing system for winter is important to avoid these disasters.

In this blog post, the plumbing experts at AirCo provide helpful tips to keep your pipes safe and your water flowing all season.

Insulate Your Pipes

Pipe insulation is one of the most effective ways to prevent water from freezing inside your system.

Covering pipes with foam pipe sleeves or insulation tape in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and attics can help keep them warm enough to withstand cold temperatures. This simple step can save you from the headache and expense of burst pipe repairs.

Seal Leaks

Inspect your home for cracks or holes near pipes, and seal them with caulk or expanding foam, paying special attention to areas where pipes exit your home or pass through exterior walls.

Cold air can easily seep through even small gaps, freezing the water in your pipes. Sealing these leaks will protect your plumbing and improve your home’s overall energy efficiency.

Keep Your Heater On

Even if you’re planning to be away from your home during the winter, it’s important to leave your heater set to at least 55º F to maintain a safe temperature for your pipes.

A steady flow of warm air prevents pipes from freezing and protects your home from potential plumbing problems while you’re away.

Open Cabinet Doors

Keeping the cabinet doors open beneath sinks in kitchens and bathrooms allows warm air to circulate around your pipes. This is particularly important if the pipes are against exterior walls. By letting warm air in, you reduce the chances of freezing and keep your plumbing in optimal condition.

Let Your Faucets Drip

When temperatures drop significantly, letting your faucet drip can relieve pressure in your pipes and prevent freezing. Even a slow, steady drip is enough to keep water moving, which helps prevent ice blockages that lead to burst pipes.

How To Detect Early Signs of Pipe Issues

Being able to identify the signs of frozen pipes early can help you address the issue before it gets worse. Here are a few signs to watch out for this winter:

• No water flow: If you turn on a faucet and little or no water comes out, a pipe may be frozen.
• Frost on pipes: Visible frost or ice on exposed pipes is a clear sign of freezing.
• Unusual sounds: Listen for banging, gurgling, or clanking noises when you turn on faucets, as these can signal frozen or clogged pipes.
• Strange odors: If a sink or drain emits odd odors, a pipe may be blocked due to freezing.
• Bulging pipes: A swollen appearance in a pipe can indicate ice expansion, increasing the risk of a burst pipe.

If you notice any of these signs, acting fast is critical. Ignoring frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs and water damage.

Choose AirCo for Pipe Repairs in the DFW Metroplex

When it comes to protecting your home from winter plumbing disasters, AirCo has you covered. Our expert team provides comprehensive pipe repairs in the DFW Metroplex, ensuring your home remains safe and warm all winter.

Whether you need help insulating pipes, detecting frozen pipe issues, or repairing damage, we’re here to help.

Don’t wait until it’s too late — schedule your winter plumbing service today and enjoy peace of mind this season.