Are you prepared for a sudden freeze? The cold weather here can be unpredictable this time of year! So, while it may still be warm some days, this is a great time to start prepping your home for dropping temperatures! Burst pipes can lead to water damage as well as mold issues. It’s so important to prep your home for the colder months and those sudden dips below freezing. Here are some simple tips to help you prepare for a freeze!
- Keep outside hoses detached
- Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers
- Insulate any exterior pipes in crawl space
- Open cabinet doors for indoor faucets on exterior walls
- If you are away from home, leave your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees. Also, check your thermostat battery. Never leave it completely off. If your pipes burst and you’re away, this will lead to more damage if water is left sitting.
- If you are expecting extremely low temps, leave faucets trickling. The slow drip of the water will help keep the pipes from freezing.
- Check for and seal any cracks that let cold air in the home
- If possible, use the indoor valve to shut off water leading to exterior faucets that will not be used in the winter
A burst pipe is never fun, but it is preventable in most cases, with attention and diligence to preparing your home. As always, IRS is here for you when you need us! We are your first call in a water emergency! We can stop the water before it spreads and causes more damage and breeds mold. We have expert insurance liaisons on staff to deal with every detail and we work with every insurance company. Read here for more tips on preventing frozen pipes while away.
