Home maintenance involves more than you may be aware. It is always better to be safe than sorry. Frozen pipes can become expensive to repair. Keep your hard-earned money in your wallet by learning how to prevent frozen pipes.
Pipe Freezing: What’s the Problem?
The problem with freezing pipes is that they quickly become broken pipes. How does this happen? When water freezes, it expands, causing metal and plastic pipes to burst. Pipes that are frequently exposed to the cold outdoor elements, including water sprinkler lines, water supply pipes and swimming pool supply lines are most vulnerable and will freeze first, potentially causing major damage – and major headaches.
Where Do Frozen Pipes Occur?
Frozen pipes can occur anywhere on the inside or outside of a home or business. Common frozen pipe areas include kitchen cabinets, garages, basements and crawl spaces. These areas are prone to frozen pipes because they are not heated and interior areas have little to no insulation.
How Can Frozen Pipes be Prevented?
- During the first indication of cold weather, drain your swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines. Follow manufacturer’s guidelines to prevent damage to the pipes. Unless you are instructed to do so, avoid using antifreeze. There are many hazards that accompany antifreeze. Antifreeze is dangerous to pets and humans, as well as landscapes.
- Outdoor drain and store hoses should be removed prior to cold weather. Be sure to open outdoor hose bibs so water can drain properly from hoses. Inside valves that support and supply outside hose bibs should be cleaned thoroughly.
- Drain all pipes and store them inside in a clean, dry place. Sprinkler hoses and other outside hoses should be drained and brought inside until cold weather clears or the temperature is above freezing.
- Purchase pipe sleeves for your outdoor hoses to help prevent them from freezing and becoming damaged. Heated tape and heated cables will work when you are trying to prevent frozen pipes in and around your home.
How Can I Prepare for Cold Weather?
The easiest way to prevent frozen pipes is to prepare for winter weather early. A freeze can happen in a matter of minutes in Texas, so it’s best not to wait until the last minute to prepare for potential winter weather. Keep an eye on the weather by staying current with weather patterns by watching the local news. As soon as bad weather is in the forecast, take immediate action.
Another way to prepare yourself for winter weather is by purchasing home insurance. Do not confuse home insurance with renter’s insurance. If the landlord has insurance on the property you are renting, the insurance covers the property and not any of your valuables or belongings. If you do not own your home, it is important to have renter’s insurance for this reason. Protect your valuables and belongings.
Ramey King Insurance can help you find a home insurance policy that suits your needs without enduring a frustrating process. We represent over 80 insurance companies, which allows us to research various possibilities before pairing you with the coverage the truly meets your requirements. Call us today at 1-800-453-9691 to get assistance from one of our friendly agents.
