Protecting Your Home from Frozen Pipes: 5 Vital Winter Preparation Steps

Jan 17

As the Chicago area is in the midst of a prolonged cold spell with sub zero temperatures, homeowners have a critical task to address before they can enjoy the coziness of their fireplaces by safeguarding their home's pipes from freezing. Knowing how to prevent pipes from freezing is an essential skill that you shouldn't overlook, especially if you are looking to sell your Chicago home in January.

When water freezes, it expands, potentially causing pipes to burst, resulting in basement flooding, damage to drywall, and repair costs that can soar into the thousands. According to Forbes, the average claim paid for water damage and freezing is $12,514.

Here are the 5 steps you should take to prevent pipes from freezing:

Step 1: Draining Your Pipes

The first step is to remove the water from your pipes. To do this, address all the water lines leading to your garden hose, sprinkler, and pool. After shutting off the water valves, open the spigots to allow any remaining water to drip out.

Step 2: Insulating Exposed Piping

Pipe Insulation to Prevent Freezing for Chicago Homeowners

Ideally, your water pipes should be located in heated spaces only. However, every home's layout is different. Generally, be cautious of pipes in unheated or uninsulated areas like the attic, basement, or crawl space. In such cases, insulate the pipes with insulation sleeves or wrapping, readily available at local hardware stores.

Step 3: Open Cabinet Doors

During the freezing season, even your indoor pipes may need extra protection. One simple way to achieve this is by opening the cabinet doors in your bathroom or kitchen where plumbing is located. While it may not look aesthetically pleasing to expose the space beneath your sink, improved airflow helps keep your pipes warmer than if they were enclosed.

Step 4: Allow Faucets to Drip

Here's another tip to safeguard your pipes: when temperatures plummet, let your faucets drip. Although this advice may seem counterintuitive to water conservation, it can save you significant money on pipe repairs. The Red Cross also recommends running water through the pipes, even at a trickle, as it helps prevent freezing by relieving pressure building from ice inside the pipes. Many homeowners overlook this simple precaution, but allowing cold water to drip from the faucet can alleviate pressure caused by ice inside a pipe.

Step 5: Shut Off the Water Completely

During holiday trips or winter vacations, it's advisable to take an extra precaution by turning off your home's water supply completely. Unused water sitting in pipes is prone to freezing, which could lead to a burst pipe and a messy situation upon your return. Locate the water shut-off valve, typically situated near where the water pipes enter your home, often in the kitchen, basement, or downstairs bathroom (consult your property records if you're unsure).

How to Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes

If you're greeted by a mere trickle of water when you turn on a faucet, it's a clear sign of a frozen pipe. Frozen pipes are commonly found in areas against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation. Here's what you need to do to safely thaw them:

Keep the Faucet Open: Leave the faucet open as you address the frozen pipe. As the frozen area starts to thaw, water will gradually flow through, aiding in the melting process. Running water through the pipe helps accelerate the ice melting. Apply heat to the frozen pipe section using one of the following methods:

Use an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe.
Employ an electric hair dryer to direct warm air onto the frozen area.
Position a portable space heater (ensuring it's away from flammable materials).
Wrap the pipes with towels soaked in hot water.

Important Note: Avoid using a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or any open flame device, as they pose fire hazards.
Maintain Heat Until Full Flow Restored: Continue applying heat until the water pressure returns to normal and the pipe is fully thawed. Be patient, as this may take some time.
Seek Professional Help: If you can't locate the frozen area, if it's inaccessible, or if your attempts to thaw the pipe are unsuccessful, it's advisable to contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
Check Other Faucets: After resolving the issue with the frozen pipe, inspect all other faucets in your home to ensure there are no additional frozen pipes. Remember that if one pipe freezes, others in your plumbing system may be at risk as well.

Protecting your home from frozen pipes is of utmost importance, particularly during the harsh winters experienced in the Chicago area. Understanding how to prevent pipes from freezing and knowing how to safely thaw them can save you from costly damages and inconveniences.

Frozen pipes can lead to burst pipes, resulting in basement flooding, damage to drywall, and substantial repair expenses. According to Forbes, the average claim for water damage and freezing is around $12,514, emphasizing the financial significance of taking preventive measures.