Each winter, plunging temperatures pose serious risks to home plumbing systems. Although freezing pipes may seem like a small inconvenience, there are hidden costs that can quickly snowball into extensive repairs or untimely replacement. Luckily, there are several precautions you can take to protect your pipes and your finances from the perils of winter weather. But you don’t have to take on these preventative measures alone.
Neighborhood Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical has been helping folks just like you across Central Minnesota with their home systems for over 75 years, and we have no plans to stop. We’re here to guide you in your quest to safeguard your pipes by sharing industry secrets that only come from decades of hands-on experience.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule one of our many services, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our friendly staff is standing by, ready to bring you the best plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical solutions in the region.
How Freezing Temperatures Can Wreak Havoc On Your Pipes
Water, as we all know, freezes when its temperature drops below 32 degrees. When cold air rolls in, hitting areas like Central Minnesota hard, your home’s water pipes become extremely vulnerable to winter’s icy grip. As the water freezes, it expands, creating immense pressure from the inside out. This pressure stresses the pipe until it cracks or bursts, unleashing a domino effect of property damage.
Exposed pipes are most vulnerable to this threat, as they are generally in spaces with limited insulation, like attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Pipes running along exterior walls and outdoor plumbing fixtures also carry an increased risk of freezing. But we’ll teach you how to keep your pipes warm all season long, saving thousands of dollars in restoration.
Immediate Repair Costs to Fix Frozen Pipes
A pipe bursts. Now what? The immediate aftermath involves a frantic scramble to stop the water flow and assess the damage. Repairing broken pipes often involves locating the affected areas, removing damaged sections, and replacing them, which can add up quickly. If the burst pipe is located behind a wall or under a floor, the repair becomes even more complex and time-consuming.
Property Damage from Mold & Structural Issues
The true cost of frozen pipe damage extends far beyond the initial repair. Water intrusion sets the stage for a host of long-term, moisture-related problems, one of the most significant being mold growth. This fungal menace can spread rapidly, compromising air quality and posing health risks. And, once mold starts to spread, the cost of remediation can skyrocket.
Moreover, water weakens the structural integrity of a home. Saturated drywall and compromised floor joists pose serious safety risks, and the expenses associated with repairing these problems can be overwhelming. In addition to mold and structural damage, you may also need to replace personal belongings, flooring, or furniture, as water damage rarely limits itself to just one area.
Increased Utility Bills
Burst pipes don’t just impact the plumbing system; they also affect utility bills. Even a single broken pipe can waste hundreds of gallons of water per hour. This excessive water usage translates to skyrocketing utility bills. Plus, the aftermath of frozen pipes often leads to inefficiencies in your plumbing and heating systems, causing long-term increases in energy consumption.
Insurance Premiums
Filing a claim for frozen pipe damage can have lasting financial repercussions. While your homeowner’s insurance may cover the immediate repair costs, you might face increased premiums in the future. Not to mention, the deductible you pay out-of-pocket can be a hefty expense.
Prevent Frozen Pipes With These DIY Tricks
While you can’t control Mother Nature, there are some actions you can take to prevent pipes from freezing, even during Minnesota’s unrelenting winters. Here are some easy, affordable ways to get started:
- Seal cracks: Walk around your home and seal any visible cracks near exposed pipes. Gaps around doors, windows, or walls can allow cold air to seep in, raising the chances of freezing pipes.
- Pipe insulation: Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation to help regulate their temperature. You can find insulation at most hardware stores, and it’s a quick, effective way to keep pipes warm.
- Disconnect garden hoses: As cold weather approaches, be sure to disconnect garden hoses from outdoor faucets. Water can freeze in these hoses and cause pressure to back up into the pipe, leading to a burst.
- Let faucets drip: On frigid nights, let faucets drip slightly. Moving water is much less likely to freeze than standing water.
- Open cabinet doors: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks by keeping cabinet doors open.
- Maintain a steady temperature: Resist the urge to lower the thermostat too much, even when you’re away. Consistent warmth throughout your home helps keep pipes nice and toasty.
- Know your main water supply valve: Familiarize yourself with the location of your main water shut-off valve. If a pipe does burst, you’ll want to stop the flow ASAP.
Double Up Your Defense With Professional Services
You can further protect your home and your wallet with the expertise of a professional at Neighborhood Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical. Our trained techs can identify potential weak points in the plumbing system that may be overlooked, potentially saving you from costly repairs down the line. They can also apply professional-grade pipe insulation, which offers superior protection against even the coldest temperatures.
Beyond these specific services, plumbing professionals can provide expert advice on improving your home’s overall insulation and heating efficiency. This holistic approach not only protects your pipes but can lead to energy savings throughout your entire home.
Get Help Protecting Your Pipes & Your Wallet This Winter
The hidden costs of frozen pipes extend far beyond a single repair bill. Property damage, utility expenses, and even insurance premiums all add up, making the winter season an expensive time if you’re not prepared.
For help securing your home against freezing temperatures, reach out to Neighborhood Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical. Our team is here to provide expert advice and effective solutions to keep your pipes — and your budget — safe this winter.