Categories: Uncategorized

Preventing Frozen Pipes Starts in October

When temperatures dip below freezing, water inside your plumbing can freeze, expand, and cause your pipes to burst. This leads to major water damage and expensive repairs. Fortunately, taking simple steps in October can protect your plumbing system before the cold sets in.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Use foam pipe insulation to wrap pipes in unheated areas like garages, basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls. For added protection, consider using heat tape.

Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Leaving hoses connected traps water in outdoor faucets, which can freeze and rupture pipes. Disconnect, drain, and store hoses before the first frost.

Seal Air Leaks

Cold air sneaking into your home through gaps and cracks near pipes increases the risk of freezing. Seal leaks around windows, doors, and foundations to keep warm air in and cold air out.

Let Faucets Drip on Cold Nights

Letting a small trickle of water run on extremely cold nights keeps water moving through your pipes, which helps prevent freezing.

Open Cabinet Doors

Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks, especially in kitchens and bathrooms that are along exterior walls.

Know Where the Shut-Off Valve Is

In case of a burst pipe, you’ll need to act fast. Locate your main water shut-off valve now so you’re prepared for emergencies.

Final Thoughts

October is the time to get ahead of winter plumbing issues. A little preparation now can save you thousands in repairs later. Contact MPE Services to schedule a seasonal plumbing inspection or for help winterizing your home.

MPE Services

Recent Posts

Generator Maintenance Before Alabama’s Fall Storms: What Should Be Checked?

In Alabama, fall storms often arrive with little warning. Power outages are common throughout the…

3 weeks ago

Why Your Drains Keep Slowing Down Even After You Clear the Clog

Have you ever cleared a clog just to find your drains slowing down again days…

4 weeks ago

Furnace or Heat Pump? What North Alabama Homeowners Should Know Before Replacing Their Heating System

If your heating system in North Alabama is showing its age, the decision about what…

1 month ago

Hard Water or Something Else? How to Read the Water Quality Clues Around Your North Alabama Home

As a homeowner in North Alabama, you might notice certain clues around your house that…

1 month ago

Is Your Electrical Panel Ready for an All-Electric Home? What Madison Homeowners Should Consider

Transitioning to an all-electric home in Madison means rethinking how much power your current electrical…

1 month ago

The Fall HVAC Changeover: 7 Problems to Catch Before Switching

As September arrives in North Alabama, the warm afternoons and cool evenings make it an…

1 month ago