Winters in Broken Arrow are relatively mild, but there are still some cold days. That means you still need to take steps to prepare your home for lower temperatures. In particular, you need to protect your pipes. Anytime the temperature drops below 32 degrees, they're in danger of freezing. Here are three of the best methods of frozen-pipe prevention you can use.
Insulation
Any exposed pipes, both indoors and outdoors, should be insulated. There are insulating sleeves you can put on them, which prevent the cold from getting in, or you can wrap them in heat cables or heat tape, which actively warm the pipes to prevent freezing.
Regulate Your Home Temperature
Perhaps the best method of frozen-pipe prevention is keeping your home warm enough. As long as it's kept above 32 degrees, there shouldn't be any problem.
Weatherstrip your home to keep heat in. Seal any air leaks that could cause warm air to leak out or cold air to leak in, making your house colder. Make sure there's enough insulation in your attic as well, to keep the heat in your home.
Finally, open the doors to any cabinets that have pipes in them: in the bathroom, below the kitchen sink, etc. This will help make sure warm air reaches them and keeps the water flowing.
Focus on Water
Being aware of the water is a good step toward preventing freezing. When the temperature starts to drop, drain any hoses outdoors that might have water in them. Then, turn on each of your faucets just slightly, until there's a small but steady trickle of water coming from them. As long as the water is moving, it will be more difficult to freeze.
If your pipes do freeze, wrap them in a heating pad or other heat source. Leave the faucet on, as once the water starts flowing again, it will help the ice to melt faster. If it still won't thaw, call a plumber.
For more tips on frozen-pipe prevention, contact us at Air Assurance. Broken Arrow's home-comfort needs are our No. 1 priority.