WINTER PIPE PROTECTION
Frozen Pipes Every Winter? Here’s the Fix
Cold Long Island weather can freeze vulnerable water lines, reduce flow and create enough pressure to split a pipe.
A pipe can freeze when it runs through an exterior wall, crawl space, garage, cabinet or another area that does not receive enough indoor heat. The first sign may be low pressure or no water at one fixture.
These four steps can help you protect vulnerable lines, respond safely and know when to call for help.
Know Where Pipes Are Most Vulnerable
Start with water lines near exterior walls, unheated basements, crawl spaces, garages and outdoor hose connections. These locations lose heat faster during a prolonged cold snap.
Disconnect garden hoses, close and drain exterior supplies when the system allows it, and learn where the main water shutoff is before winter weather arrives.
Insulate Exposed Water Lines
Pipe sleeves or suitable insulation can slow heat loss around accessible hot- and cold-water lines. Seal obvious air gaps nearby, especially where utility lines pass through an exterior wall.
Insulation helps, but it does not replace indoor heat. Pipes that freeze repeatedly may need a plumber to assess their routing, condition and long-term protection.
Keep Warm Air Moving During a Cold Snap
Keep the thermostat at a steady temperature and open cabinet doors beneath sinks on exterior walls so room air can reach the plumbing. Follow local guidance if a vulnerable faucet needs a small continuous drip.
Make sure children and pets cannot reach household cleaners or other items when cabinets are open. Check affected rooms during the night and after any heating interruption.
Thaw a Frozen Pipe Slowly and Safely
If a faucet has little or no flow, keep it open and warm the accessible pipe gradually with room heat, warm towels or a hair dryer used with care. Work from the faucet toward the frozen area so melting water has a path out.
Never use an open flame. Shut off the main water supply and call a plumber if the pipe is cracked, leaking, inaccessible or still will not thaw. Check other vulnerable fixtures because more than one line may be frozen.
Repeated freezing is a warning that part of the plumbing needs better protection. Finding the vulnerable area before the next cold spell can help prevent a burst pipe and extensive water damage.
Keith Renick Plumbing & Heating provides winter plumbing help across Long Island. Request a free quote or call 631-225-6642.