Let’s talk facts: we know that water expands when it freezes, taking up nearly 10% more space than the same amount that liquid water does. We also know that if it hits freezing temperatures outside and your pipes still have water in them or are not properly insulated…something’s got to give.
From bursting pipes, joints, and valves to potentially all three, if there’s water in your pipes, you could be looking at expensive repairs. Use Fall as your prep time, and make sure your home is ready for winter's harsh conditions.
Here’s what you can do to help prevent an icy disaster from striking your home this winter:
- Protect your water meter! If frozen, water meters can burst or block water flow, which is an expensive repair if needed. Get ahead of the game and wrap your meter with insulation or protect it with an insulated box. Go the extra mile and insulate exposed pipes leading to or from the meter as well!
- Many homes have outdoor water spigots. Prep these spaces by detaching your garden hoses, close the inside shut-off valve(s) and drain the faucet fixtures before it’s too cold!
- Pipes can still freeze even when located indoors! Wrap the pipes that run through unheated garages or crawl spaces to help prevent freezing. Cover all valves, joints, etc., with insulating tape or strips cut from sheets of insulation.
- Got pipes that run along an exterior wall? Open your cabinet doors to allow warm air to reach the pipes. Remember that drains can freeze, too!
- Know the location of your master valve or a main water shut-off control. That will allow you to turn off all the water coming into the house if you have a broken pipe.
Interested in more? Check out BriskHeat’s Freeze Protection Guides, full of useful ideas to save you time and money when it comes to winter preparation. Contact a local BriskHeat distributor or account manager to help develop a solution for your home or business.
Our go to freeze protection products for pipes:
- Insul-EZ™ foam sheets include adhesive backing for easy installation
- Insul-Lock molded flexible pipe sleeves for easy coverage of popes, joints, etc.
- RKP or MSTAT Extremeflex silicone rubber heating tape to keep pipes warm
- Roof & Gutter Kits to prevent ice dams
Download our industrial heat trace cross-reference guide including low, medium and high heat trace.
