Tips for Keeping Your Pipes from Freezing in the Winter

Winter in Fort Worth can bring unexpected challenges, and one of the most common issues homeowners face is frozen pipes. When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands, increasing the risk of bursting, which can lead to serious water damage and expensive repairs. The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to prevent this problem from happening.

Here are some plumbing tips to keep your pipes safe from freezing during the colder months:

1. Insulate Your Pipes

One of the most effective ways to prevent your pipes from freezing is to insulate them, especially those located in unheated areas like attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Insulation materials such as foam pipe covers or fiberglass can provide a protective layer against the cold.

• Wrap pipes in exposed areas with foam insulation.
• Use heat tape for extra protection on vulnerable pipes.

2. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Cold air can seep into your home through small gaps and cracks in walls, floors, and foundations, especially near your pipes. Sealing these openings will not only help keep your pipes warm but also improve your home’s overall energy efficiency.

• Inspect your home for any cracks or openings, especially around windows, doors, and walls near plumbing.
• Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps and prevent cold air from entering.

3. Keep Your Thermostat Consistent

Many people try to save on heating costs by lowering the thermostat at night or when they leave the house. However, maintaining a consistent temperature in your home can help protect your pipes from freezing.

• Set your thermostat to no lower than 55°F, even when you're away.
• Keep the temperature consistent day and night to avoid sudden temperature drops that can freeze your pipes.

4. Let Faucets Drip

Allowing your faucets to drip slightly can help relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent freezing. This is particularly important during extreme cold spells or when the temperature is expected to drop below freezing.

• Let both hot and cold faucets drip slowly to keep water moving in your pipes.
• Focus on faucets that are fed by pipes most vulnerable to freezing, such as those near exterior walls.

5. Open Cabinet Doors

Pipes located under sinks and in cabinets can be more prone to freezing due to a lack of heat circulation. Opening cabinet doors allows warm air from your home to reach these pipes and keep them from freezing.

• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors during cold weather to let warm air circulate the plumbing.
• Be sure to remove any harmful cleaning products or chemicals if you have young children or pets.

6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Leaving hoses connected to outdoor faucets can cause water to back up into the pipes, which can then freeze and burst. Disconnecting and draining hoses before winter arrives is an important step in protecting your pipes.

• Disconnect and drain all garden hoses before the first freeze.
• Install frost-proof outdoor faucets or cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers for added protection.

Prepare Your Pipes for Winter: Contact Molberg Plumbing for Expert Protection!

Taking preventive measures can save you a lot of time, stress, and money when it comes to frozen pipes. By insulating pipes, sealing gaps, maintaining a consistent indoor temperature, and following the other tips mentioned above, you can keep your pipes from freezing this winter and avoid costly repairs.

If you experience any plumbing issues or need professional help, Molberg Plumbing in Fort Worth is here to assist you with reliable and efficient services to ensure your pipes are well-protected all year round.

Call us today at (817) 476-9963 to learn more.