How To Prevent Frozen Pipes in Late Winter

With our below-freezing winter lows, Ohio is consistently one of the top 10 states with the highest cases of frozen, burst pipes. Late winter and early spring can catch homeowners off-guard when they think the risk has passed. It’s important to know how to prevent your plumbing pipes from freezing to avoid major issues like pipe bursts and costly repairs. The expert plumbers at Heart of Ohio are here to explain why pipes freeze and what you can do to prevent it.

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What Happens When Pipes Freeze?

When the temperatures drop and pipes freeze, the water inside of them will expand as it turns to ice. This can cause pipes to crack or burst, creating leaks and the potential for water damage. All frozen pipes are problematic, but this is especially serious if the frozen pipe is part of a closed system. Plumbing appliances like boilers and water heaters use closed systems, and if one of those pipes freezes, it can increase the pressure and lead to extensive damage.

How Cold Does It Have To Be for Pipes To Freeze?

Pipes can freeze as soon as the temperature hits 32 degrees Fahrenheit. They are especially susceptible to freezing when the temperatures drop to 20 degrees or lower. Pipes that are not properly insulated or are exposed to the cold for an extended period are at a higher risk for freezing. Signs of a frozen pipe include low water pressure, dripping noises, or no water coming from your faucets.

When Can Pipes Freeze in Ohio?

The winter is the most common time of year when pipes are at risk of freezing. However, even early spring can have several hours of below-freezing temperatures that can cause frozen pipes.

Pipes in unheated spaces in your home, such as basements, attics, or garages, in exterior walls, under cabinets, or near outdoor water fixtures, are at a higher risk of freezing due to the colder temperatures. If you have an older home, your pipes are also at risk due to their age, and pipes that have frozen before are more susceptible to freezing again.

Winter Plumbing Tips

While you can’t control the weather, there are steps you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing. Tips include:

• Insulate your exposed pipes, especially pipes that are outside or in areas without heating
• Keep your home warm (at least 65 degrees), even when you’re away
• Run a small stream of water from your faucets to help prevent the water itself from freezing
• Cover outdoor faucets to protect them from the cold

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Depend On Heart of Ohio for Winter Plumbing Care

Frozen pipes pose a serious risk to your whole plumbing system, so it’s important to do what you can to prevent them from freezing. Heart of Ohio is here for all your winter plumbing care needs. Investing in preventative strategies to protect your plumbing will save you money on repair services down the line. Our team has over 100 years of combined experience, so you can rest easy knowing that your plumbing will be in good hands. We offer flat-rate pricing, coupons and special offers, and free in-home estimates so you can benefit from our expertise without breaking the bank.

Depend on Heart of Ohio for your winter plumbing care. See what your neighbors are saying!