A common and expensive plumbing problem many homeowners face is burst pipes. When temperatures drop below freezing, water in pipes can freeze and expand, causing them to burst. Or if you have old, rusty pipes, they can also burst due to excessive pressure. Either way, this can lead to flooding, damage to your home, and costly repairs. As the leading local plumber in Lombard, IL, Keeley’s Plumbing shares a few simple things you can do to prevent this from happening.
Insulate Your Pipes
During winter months, insulate any exposed pipes in your home. This includes the ones in unheated areas such as attics, basements, crawlspaces, and garages. You can use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to keep pipes warm and prevent them from freezing. Technicians from your trusted plumbing company can also help insulate your pipes if you’re unsure how to do it yourself.
Seal Any Cracks and Holes
Inspect your home for any cracks or holes in the exterior walls, foundations, and around windows and doors. These tiny openings can let cold air into your home, making it difficult to maintain a warm temperature. Seal these gaps with caulk or insulation to keep the cold out and your pipes from freezing.
Keep a Consistent Temperature Indoors
Even if you won’t be home for a few days, resist the temptation to turn off your heat. Instead, keep your thermostat set no lower than 55°F (12°C) at all times. This will prevent the indoor temperature from dropping too low and keep water inside your pipes from freezing, sparing you from costly plumbing repairs.
Change Old or Damaged Pipes
If your pipes are more than 50 years old or showing signs of rust and corrosion, it’s time to replace them. Old and damaged pipes are more likely to burst due to excessive pressure or freezing temperatures, subjecting you to an emergency plumbing situation that you could avoid. Investing in new pipes may seem expensive, but it will save you from future plumbing headaches.
Keeley’s Plumbing offers a wide range of top-notch plumbing services that keep your home’s plumbing system in tip-top shape. Our team is dedicated to providing nothing less than high-quality work. We also offer regular maintenance plans to help prevent potential plumbing issues, saving you time and money in the long run. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.