Every year, approximately 250,000 homes experience damage caused by frozen pipes, according to State Farm Insurance. As the water in frozen pipes expands, it can cause flooding from broken pipes. There is no way to ensure this never happens in Nashville, but there are things you can do to prevent this from happening. Follow the steps below to lower the possibility of flooding this winter.
#1: Drain outdoor water
Outdoor pipes are obviously more prone to freezing. Schedule time to drain sprinkler supply lines, swimming pools, and outdoor hose bibs. It is also wise to drain your hoses and store them in a covered spot.
#2: Install pipe sleeves or heat tape to exposed pipes
It’s important to insulate any pipes in your property that are exposed. You can use heat tape or pipe sleeves to provide extra protection from chilly temperatures.
#3: Monitor your thermostat
Break the habit of turning off your thermostat to save money in the winter. If you ever go on vacation, make sure it is not set to anything lower than 55 degrees.
#4: Consider adding insulation
Are your basement, attic, or crawl space in need of insulation? If so, you should think about adding some. This purchase won’t only lower the possibility of frozen or broken pipes, it will also help lessen the blow of utility bill costs.
#5: Be prepared
If you notice a slow trickle when you open a faucet, you may have a frozen pipe on your hands. With the faucet open, apply heat to the pipe with an electric heating pad or hair dryer. (Do not use an open flame device.) Monitor the open faucet and maintain heat until water pressure returns.
Contact Paul Davis Restoration of Middle Tennessee as soon as possible if you have a broken pipe in your Nashville property. Our water restoration services are able to provide assistance and get you back on your feet soon.
