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How to Safeguard Your Pipes from Freezing this Winter in Arnold, MO

As winter approaches in Arnold, MO, it’s crucial to take the necessary steps to safeguard your pipes from freezing. Pipes can begin to freeze at temperatures of 20 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, and if left unprotected, they can freeze and burst rapidly. This not only disrupts your daily life but can also lead to extensive water damage and costly repairs. Proper preparation for the colder weather is key to avoiding these issues and ensuring your plumbing system remains in good working order throughout the winter months.  Implementing the preventative measures laid out in this blog can make a significant difference in keeping your pipes safe. However, if you have any concerns or suspect that your pipes may be at risk of freezing, it’s important to take action quickly. Our team at Academy Air is here to help with any questions or issues you may have.

Insulate Exposed Pipes 

One of the most effective ways to protect your plumbing from freezing during the winter is by using pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape to cover exposed pipes. This is particularly important for pipes located in unheated areas of your home, such as basements, attics, garages, or crawl spaces. These areas are more susceptible to cold temperatures, and without proper insulation, the pipes can easily freeze when the weather turns frigid. By insulating these pipes, you help retain heat and significantly reduce the risk of them freezing, which can save you from the costly repairs and damage associated with burst pipes. Pipe insulation sleeves are made from materials like foam or rubber and are designed to fit snugly around your pipes, providing a protective layer that helps maintain a consistent temperature. Heat tape, on the other hand, is an electrical heating cable that can be wrapped around the pipes to provide direct warmth. When used correctly, heat tape can be especially effective for preventing freezing in extremely cold conditions. Both methods are easy to install and offer an additional layer of security for your plumbing system, ensuring that water continues to flow smoothly even during the coldest months. However, if you’re uncertain whether your pipes are adequately protected or if you suspect that they might already be frozen, it’s important to act promptly. Frozen pipes can lead to serious problems, including pipe bursts and water damage. The team at Academy Air in Arnold, MO, is here to help. We can assess your plumbing system, provide recommendations for insulation, and assist in thawing frozen pipes if necessary.

Seal Cracks & Openings 

Sealing cracks and openings around your home is an essential step in preventing your pipes from freezing during the winter months. Areas where pipes enter your home, such as walls, floors, and foundations, can have small gaps or cracks that allow cold air to seep in. This can significantly lower the temperature around the pipes, increasing the risk of freezing. By thoroughly inspecting these areas and sealing any openings with caulking or insulation foam, you can create a barrier that keeps the cold air out and helps maintain a more consistent temperature around your pipes. If you’re unsure about where to start or have concerns about potential problem areas in your home, it’s best to consult with a professional. The team at Academy Air in Arnold, MO, is experienced in identifying and sealing these vulnerable spots to protect your plumbing system. We can help assess your home, recommend the best sealing methods, and ensure that your pipes are well-protected against the winter chill. Don’t wait until the cold weather sets in—contact us today for expert advice and service to keep your pipes safe this winter.

Keeping A Steady Temperature 

Maintaining a steady temperature in your home during the winter is crucial for preventing your pipes from freezing. Sudden drops in temperature can cause water in the pipes to freeze and expand, leading to potential bursts and costly damage. To avoid this, it’s essential to keep your home’s temperature consistent, even when you’re not there. Setting your thermostat to at least 55°F (12°C) ensures that the air around your pipes remains warm enough to prevent freezing, especially in colder areas of your home like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. In addition to keeping the thermostat at a safe level, it’s also beneficial to take extra measures to ensure that warm air circulates around your plumbing. One simple but effective method is to open the cabinet doors under sinks, particularly those located along exterior walls. This allows the warm air from your home’s heating system to flow around the pipes, providing additional warmth and reducing the risk of freezing. Small steps like this can make a significant difference, especially during extremely cold weather. At Academy Air in Arnold, MO, we understand the importance of protecting your plumbing system during the winter months. We recommend these preventive measures to help you avoid the stress and expense of dealing with frozen pipes. If you have any concerns about your home’s heating or plumbing systems, our professional team is here to help.

 

Let Your Faucets Drip 

During extremely cold weather, letting your faucet drip can be a simple yet effective way to prevent your pipes from freezing. When you allow a small trickle of water to run from faucets connected to exposed pipes, it keeps the water moving through the pipes. Moving water is less likely to freeze compared to standing water, as the constant flow prevents the formation of ice blockages within the pipes. This small step can be especially beneficial for pipes located in unheated or poorly insulated areas, such as basements, attics, or exterior walls. A slow drip from your faucet also helps relieve pressure in the system if ice does begin to form. Typically, it’s the pressure build-up between the ice blockage and the faucet that causes pipes to burst, not the expansion of the ice itself. By allowing your faucet to drip, you reduce this pressure, minimizing the risk of a pipe burst. While this might seem like a waste of water, the potential damage from a burst pipe far outweighs the small amount of water used in this preventive measure. If you have a faulty faucet that needs repair before the winter cold sets in, it’s essential to address the issue promptly. A leaking or malfunctioning faucet can interfere with your ability to use this method effectively. Academy Air in Arnold, MO, is here to help with any repairs or maintenance you might need to ensure your plumbing system is winter-ready. Contact us today to schedule a repair and ensure your home is prepared for winter.

Call Academy Air if You Suspect Your Pipes are Frozen 

If you suspect that your pipes are frozen, it’s crucial to take immediate action to prevent extreme damage to your home and foundation. Frozen pipes can quickly escalate from a minor inconvenience to a major disaster if they burst, causing flooding and significant water damage. The longer the issue is left unaddressed, the greater the risk of severe structural damage and costly repairs. At Academy Air, we understand the urgency of dealing with frozen pipes, which is why we offer reliable and prompt service to address the issue before it worsens. Our team is A+ BBB accredited and staffed with NATE-certified technicians, ensuring that you receive top-quality service from experienced professionals. We are committed to providing excellent customer care, and with our 24/7 live answering service, you can rest assured that help is just a phone call away, no matter the time of day or night. Call us today to protect your home and ensure your peace of mind during the winter months.

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