Here in New York the winter temperatures have definitely set in. As the temperatures drop, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting rise. During the winter months burst pipes are the most common cause of property damage. When pipes burst it can easily cost $5,000 or more to repair all of the damage that was done. So how can you help prevent this from happening at your house? Agape Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing has some tips for you.

Best Pipe Insulation to Prevent Freezing

The pipes that are most at risk are the pipes in unheated interior spaces like the basement, attic, or garage. Pipes in your walls can freeze as well though. To help protect your pipes you can purchase pipe insulation. Pipe insulation can cost as little as 50 cents per linear foot from your local hardware store. Since the cost of pipe insulation is so low using it liberally is an affordable option.

Keep Garage Doors Closed During Cold Weather

Make sure that you keep your garage door closed as much as possible during the winter. This tip may seem a little odd but it is definitely known to help. There are frequently water supply lines in your garage so keeping your door closed will keep those pipes as warm as possible.

Open Under Sink Cabinet Doors in Winter

If you know that freezing temperatures are going to set in open your kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors. This will allow some warmer air to circulate around the plumbing underneath the sinks. If you have small children you will want to make sure that you remove any harmful cleaners and household chemicals before you leave the cabinet doors open.

Drip Cold Water to Prevent Pipes from Freezing

If you let cold water drip from your faucet if can help prevent your pipes from freezing. The running water keeps water in your pipes moving so that they do not freeze.

Keep Your Thermostat at a Constant Temperature

We recommend that you keep your thermostat at a fairly consistent temperature. Many people are tempted to change their thermostat during a cold front to save some money. Keeping it set at the same temperature that you normally have it at is better for your pipes. If your leaving your home for an extended period of time during the winter do not turn your heat off or set it for lower than 55 degrees.

Home Sealing

In addition to pipe insulation adding insulation to your attic, basement, and crawl spaces can also help prevent your pipes from freezing. We also recommend sealing ducts, windows, door, and sill plates to prevent drafts. Taking these precautions will help keep the temperature in your house warmer which will help your pipes stay warmer as well.

Furnace Heating Repair, Tune Up & More in Bedford Hills, Manhattan, Flushing, Queens, Brooklyn & The Bronx, New York

Having routine maintenance performed on your heating system is also a fantastic preventative measure. You should have maintenance performed on your heating system every year. We recommend that you have your service done in the fall before the cold temperature sets in all the way. Having to deal with the water damage that is caused when your pipes burst can be a nightmare so Agape Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing hopes that these tips prevent the pipes from freezing at your home this winter. Contact us today!