How Can You Prevent Frozen Pipes During Commerce City’s Cold Winters?

Winter in Commerce City, CO 80239, brings frigid temperatures that can cause serious problems for homeowners. One of the most common issues is frozen pipes, which can lead to bursts, flooding, and costly repairs. Thankfully, with some proactive steps, you can protect your pipes and avoid plumbing emergencies this winter.

Here’s how to prevent frozen pipes and keep your home safe during the coldest months.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes that run through unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages are most at risk for freezing. Adding insulation to these pipes is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect them.

How to Insulate Pipes:

• Foam Pipe Insulation: Wrap your pipes with foam sleeves that you can find at any hardware store.
• Heat Tape: In areas that experience extreme cold, consider using heat tape to provide extra warmth to your pipes.
• Seal Gaps: Look for cracks or gaps in walls where cold air might sneak in and reach your pipes, and seal them with caulk or foam.

Insulating your pipes takes minimal effort but can save you from major headaches down the road. This first line of defense helps keep your pipes warm and your water flowing.

Keep the Heat On

Even if you're leaving home for a few days, it’s crucial to keep your heat on to prevent pipes from freezing. A temperature of at least 55°F (13°C) is recommended throughout your home, even in rooms you rarely use.

Why This Matters:

Pipes need warmth to avoid freezing. While you might be tempted to save on heating costs, turning your heat too low can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to costly plumbing repairs.

Open Cabinet Doors

Many pipes run through your kitchen and bathroom cabinets, which can trap cold air and increase the risk of freezing. By opening these cabinet doors, you allow the warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes, helping prevent them from freezing.

Quick Tip:

Make a habit of opening the cabinet doors beneath your kitchen sink and bathroom vanities on particularly cold nights. This simple step can make a big difference in keeping your pipes warm.

Let Faucets Drip

During extremely cold weather, it’s a good idea to let faucets connected to exposed pipes drip slowly. This keeps water moving, which lowers the risk of freezing.

Why Dripping Helps:

Running water doesn’t freeze as easily as still water. By allowing a small trickle to flow, you relieve pressure in the pipes and reduce the chances of them bursting, even if they freeze.

Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Faucets

Outdoor faucets are especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures, and they can cause indoor pipes to freeze too. Before winter sets in, shut off the water supply to your outdoor faucets and drain them completely.

Steps to Take:

• Shut off the valve: Most homes have a shut-off valve specifically for outdoor faucets.
• Drain the hose: Disconnect garden hoses and drain any remaining water from the faucet.
• Install a cover: For extra protection, you can buy inexpensive insulated faucet covers from a hardware store.

By taking these precautions, you can prevent water from freezing inside your outdoor pipes and affecting your entire plumbing system.

Call a Professional

If you’re unsure about the condition of your pipes or want to take extra precautions, calling a plumber Commerce City CO is always a smart move. A professional can inspect your pipes, suggest the best insulation options, and help ensure your home is fully winter-ready.

Professional Help When You Need It:

Frozen pipes can still happen, even with precautions. If you find yourself dealing with a frozen or burst pipe, don’t wait to call for help. Quick action can save you from more serious damage. Preventing frozen pipes is all about preparation. By insulating your pipes, keeping the heat on, and taking a few simple steps, you can avoid the hassle and expense of burst pipes this winter. 

If you’re ever unsure, or you’re facing a frozen pipe emergency, don’t hesitate to contact a trusted expert in plumbing repairs Commerce City CO. Stay warm, stay prepared, and keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly all season long!