How do you prevent pipes from freezing?

Winter is an exciting time, with everyone looking forward to the incoming festivities. But with the beauty of winter comes the not-so-magical problem of freezing pipes.

If you've ever asked yourself, "how do you prevent pipes from freezing?", you're in the right place! This guide will walk you through practical ways to keep your pipes in tip-top shape, even as the temperature drops.

Why do pipes freeze?

Before diving into prevention methods, let's tackle a common question: What temperature do pipes freeze at? Generally, pipes begin to freeze when temperatures drop to 20 degrees celsius or lower. Frozen pipes can burst, leading to costly repairs and potential water damage. Understanding the risks and taking proactive measures can save you a lot of headaches.

Steps to prevent your pipes from freezing

1. Insulate your pipes

One of the most effective ways to keep your pipes from freezing is insulation. Focus on pipes located in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages.

• Use foam pipe insulation sleeves.
• Consider using heat tape or heat cables for added protection in extremely cold areas. 

2. Seal off draughts

Draughts can significantly lower temperatures around your pipes, increasing the risk of freezing. We also have a full blog on how to draught your windows and doors, which you can read here. 

• Check for gaps around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home.
• Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these areas and keep cold air out.

3. Keep the thermostat consistent

Avoid letting the temperature inside your home fluctuate drastically.

• Set your thermostat to at least 12 degrees Celsius, even when you're away.
• Consistent indoor temperatures can prevent pipes from reaching freezing conditions.

4. Open cabinet doors

In areas like the kitchen and bathroom, opening cabinet doors can help warm air circulate around pipes.

• This is especially important if your sinks are on an exterior wall.
• Remember to remove any harmful chemicals from low cabinets if you have children or pets.

5. Let taps drip

A slow trickle of water can prevent pipe freeze by keeping water moving within the pipes.

• Letting taps drip slightly, especially during extreme cold snaps, can relieve pressure and reduce the risk of a pipe bursting.

6. Disconnect garden hoses

Outside taps are particularly vulnerable during cold weather.

• Disconnect garden hoses and shut off the water supply to exterior taps if possible.
• Consider installing frost-free plugs for added protection.

7. Install pipe sleeves or heat tape

If you live in an area prone to harsh winters, you might need additional solutions.

• Pipe sleeves provide extra insulation, while heat tape can maintain a constant temperature in pipes.
• Ensure that any heat tape used is suitable for your specific pipe material.

What to do if your pipes freeze

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, pipes can still freeze. Here's how to handle it:

• Turn off the water supply immediately to prevent pipes from bursting.
• Open taps to relieve pressure and allow water to escape as it thaws.
• Apply heat using a hairdryer, heating pad, or space heater, focusing on the area closest to the faucet.
• Avoid open flames or blowtorches, as they pose a significant fire hazard.

If you're uncomfortable handling frozen pipes or if they burst, it's best to call a professional plumber.

Knowing how to prevent pipes from freezing is a crucial part of home maintenance during winter. With these simple steps, you can protect your home from the risks associated with frozen pipes. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in preventing a wintertime plumbing disaster.

Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of winter without the worry of freezing pipes!

If you have any more questions concerning frozen pipes, or you require any additional information about the plumbing products we sell at Howarth, please visit your local Howarth branch, or contact our customer services on 01472 907051.

You can also explore our range of plumbing products here, and you can even visit us in branch for more information.