Memphis can get very cold this time of year, and below freezing temperatures can take you by surprise sometimes. Frozen pipes is an often overlooked yet very serious issue that needs to be taken seriously when the weather starts to get cold. Slow moving water can freeze in place within a pipe, causing a build of water which eventually causes a pipe to burst. This won’t only damage the pipe system, but can cause serious collateral water damage to your home.

Here are some tips and tricks on how to find pipes that risk becoming frozen during a cold snap, and how to lower your risk of damage before the weather takes you by surprise.

Identifying Pipes in Risk of Freezing

Step 1: Know Your Home

It’s time to roll up your sleeves, dive down deep into your basement and learn where each of your pipes begin and end up. This may not always be so obvious as some pipes can be hiding behind walls or otherwise covered up. Learn where each pipe goes and what it is used for, taking note of where it is exposed to the open air. If you need it, call the professionals at Stewart Plumbing to come in and give you a hand. Understanding where pipes are and what they’re used for will help address most home plumbing issues you encounter, including your frozen or burst pipes.

Step 2: Find The Cold

Are there any areas in your basement where it is colder than others? These could be spots near windows, cracks, or exposed areas to the outdoors. Are there pipes near by? Cracks and exposed areas within the home increases the risk for a pipe to freeze if they are exposed to that area. Know these areas well as they will need special protection when it comes to applying any preventative measures.

Step 3: Watch The Weather

You need to know when the weather is going to drop below freezing so you can employ the preventative tips below before you have a problem.

Preventing Pipes From Freezing

Here are some helpful tips to prevent pipes from freezing this winter. Note, you will want to address the issue before the freezing weather hits: remember, it gets much more while you’re asleep, so don’t wake up to burst pipes!

1) Insulate your pipes: This can be effective when it comes to pipes that are in those high risk areas we pointed out earlier. Putting a line of insulation around a pipe will help prevent the water inside from freezing as quickly.

2) Leave the faucet running: Leaving your faucets at a drip will keep the water moving within the pipes, reducing the chance it will freeze. This is a great option if the power goes out: your home will grow colder, increasing the risk of freezing pipes.

3) Re-Route frozen pipes: A trained Memphis plumber can come into your home, help you identify problem areas in your pipes, and re-route or protect the troubled areas to help address the issue.

Don’t Wait For The Cold To Come

Pipes that burst from freezing can spell major problems from your, so be proactive and take action today. Don’t wait until you’re stuck out in the cold, call Stewart Plumbing today to learn more about how you can prevent and address frozen pipes.