Frozen Pipes Prevention

Lucy is a licensed property & casualty agent who has been working in the insurance industry for more than 30 years. She has recently earned her CISR designation.

 

This past weekend brought New England the coldest weather of the winter season so far. A large concern during this time of the year is frozen pipes. Frozen pipes can cause water pressure buildup between the ice blockage and the closed faucet at the end of a pipe. This pressure can lead to pipes bursting at their weakest point.

To prevent frozen pipes, take these following precautions:

  1. 1. Fit exposed pipes with insulation sleeves or wrapping to slow the heat transfer.

  2. 2. Seal cracks and holes in outside walls and foundations near water pipes with caulking.

  3. 3. Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

    4. Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets connected to pipes that run through any unheated or unprotected space.

    5. Drain the water system especially if your house will be unattended during cold periods.

Taking these precautions unfortunately cannot guarantee that the pipes in the house will not freeze over, but taking these steps can help prevent it. Contact us if you have any questions regarding damage from frozen pipes.