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Winter in Tennessee can bring sudden drops in temperature that put your home’s plumbing at risk. Frozen pipes aren’t just inconvenient—they can burst, causing costly water damage and expensive repairs. With a few preventative steps, you can protect your plumbing and keep your home safe all season long.
Why Pipes Freeze
Water expands when it freezes, and this can cause pipes to crack or burst. Pipes located in unheated areas like basements, attics, crawl spaces, and garages are particularly vulnerable. Even short periods of extreme cold can lead to serious damage if precautions aren’t taken.
Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes
1. Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
Adding insulation sleeves or wrapping pipes with heat tape can make a big difference. Focus on pipes in unheated areas, and don’t forget outdoor faucets. Proper insulation slows the cooling process and helps prevent freezing.
2. Seal Gaps and Drafts
Cold air entering your home through gaps in walls, windows, and doors can chill nearby pipes. Check for drafts and seal openings around plumbing lines to keep cold air out. Weatherstripping and caulking are simple and effective solutions.
3. Keep the Heat On
Even if you’re away, keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F. This helps maintain a stable indoor temperature and prevents pipes from freezing. In extreme cold, leaving cabinet doors open under sinks allows warm air to circulate around plumbing.
4. Let Faucets Drip
Allowing a slow trickle of water to flow through vulnerable pipes can prevent freezing. Moving water freezes more slowly than stagnant water, reducing the risk of damage. This method is particularly useful for pipes along exterior walls.
5. Prepare Outdoor Faucets and Sprinklers
Disconnect hoses and drain outdoor faucets before the first freeze. Shut off water supply lines to outdoor irrigation systems and drain them to prevent frozen water from causing cracks.
What to Do if Pipes Freeze
If you suspect a frozen pipe, act quickly. Turn off the main water supply and gently thaw the pipe using a hair dryer, heat lamp, or warm towels. Never use open flames. If the pipe has burst or you can’t safely thaw it, call a professional plumber immediately.
Tennessee Plumbing
Preventing frozen pipes is essential to avoid water damage and costly repairs. By insulating pipes, sealing drafts, maintaining heat, and taking simple precautions with faucets and outdoor systems, you can protect your home this winter. For professional guidance and reliable plumbing services, contact Tennessee Plumbing at (423) 455-8776 and keep your home safe all season long.