Winter weather in Southwest Oklahoma can be unpredictable. While temperatures may fluctuate throughout the season, freezing temperatures can arrive quickly and put your home's plumbing system at risk. One of the biggest concerns for homeowners during cold weather is frozen pipes.
When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and creates pressure that can cause the pipe to crack or burst. A damaged pipe can lead to significant water damage, expensive repairs, and unexpected plumbing emergencies. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to protect your plumbing before temperatures drop.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes located in unheated areas of your home are especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Common locations include garages, crawl spaces, basements, attics, and exterior walls.
Adding pipe insulation helps maintain water temperature and reduces the risk of freezing. Pay particular attention to pipes near exterior walls and areas where cold air can enter your home.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Before winter arrives, disconnect garden hoses from outdoor faucets. Leaving hoses connected can trap water inside the faucet and connected plumbing, increasing the risk of freezing and pipe damage.
If your home has outdoor faucets with shutoff valves, close them and drain the remaining water when appropriate.
Seal Drafts Around Pipes
Cold air entering through small gaps around windows, doors, foundations, and plumbing penetrations can expose pipes to freezing temperatures.
Use appropriate caulking or weatherstripping to seal these openings and help keep cold air away from vulnerable plumbing.
Keep Your Home Warm
Even when you're away, maintain a consistent indoor temperature during freezing weather. Turning your thermostat down too low can increase the risk of frozen pipes, especially in areas with limited insulation.
During especially cold weather, opening cabinet doors beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks can also help warm air circulate around plumbing located along exterior walls.
Know What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you suspect a pipe has frozen, act quickly. Turn on the affected faucet to check for water flow. If only a trickle comes out, the pipe may be frozen.
Never use an open flame to thaw a frozen pipe. If you can safely access the affected area, gentle warming methods may help, but avoid attempting repairs if you suspect the pipe has cracked or burst.
If a pipe bursts, shut off your home's main water supply immediately and contact a professional plumber.
Schedule Plumbing Maintenance Before Winter
The best way to avoid winter plumbing emergencies is to prepare before freezing temperatures arrive. A professional plumbing inspection can help identify vulnerable pipes, existing leaks, and other potential problems.
Protect Your Plumbing This Winter with JB Runyan Plumbing
Don't let freezing temperatures catch your home off guard. JB Runyan Plumbing provides dependable plumbing repairs, inspections, and pipe services throughout Southwest Oklahoma, including Lawton, Cache, Elgin, Duncan, Altus, Walters, and Chickasha.
Contact JB Runyan Plumbing today to address plumbing concerns and help keep your home protected throughout the winter season.
Plumbing
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