Expert Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes In Memphis

Recently, our expertise was recognized by local news outlets, WREG News Channel 3, Fox 13, and Action News 5, who featured us in their reports on the dangers of frozen pipes. Amid a cold snap in Memphis, the news crews turned to us for our trusted advice on how to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially causing costly damage. These stories underscored our status as the local authority in plumbing, heating and air, and they highlighted our commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of our community.

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Serious Problem

When temperatures drop, the water inside your pipes can freeze. This might not seem like a big deal at first, but frozen water expands, putting a lot of pressure on your pipes. This pressure can cause pipes to crack or even burst, leading to serious water damage in your home. Not only can this be expensive to repair, but it can also cause major disruptions to your daily life.

How to Identify Vulnerable Pipes in Your Home

Before winter hits, it’s important to identify which pipes in your home are most at risk of freezing. Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, or those located along exterior walls are particularly vulnerable. By knowing where your most vulnerable pipes are, you can take targeted action to protect them.

Tip: Pay special attention to pipes that have frozen before or those that are exposed to cold drafts.

Simple Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Keep Your Home Warm

One of the easiest ways to prevent pipes from freezing is to keep your home warm. Even if you’re away, make sure your thermostat is set to at least 55°F. This ensures that your home’s temperature stays above freezing, which can prevent your pipes from getting too cold.

2. Let Faucets Drip

Allowing a small trickle of water to flow through your faucets can prevent pressure from building up in your pipes, which helps reduce the risk of freezing. This is especially helpful for pipes that are most vulnerable to the cold.

3. Open Cabinet Doors

If you have pipes under your kitchen or bathroom sinks, keep the cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes, helping to keep them from freezing.

4. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Insulating your pipes is one of the most effective ways to prevent them from freezing. You can use pipe insulation, heat tape, or even old blankets to wrap around vulnerable pipes. This added layer of protection helps keep the cold out and the warmth in.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze

If you suspect that your pipes have frozen, act quickly to prevent further damage. Here’s what you should do:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply: If you think a pipe has frozen, turn off the main water supply to your home. This will help prevent flooding if the pipe bursts.
2. Thaw the Frozen Pipe: Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels to gently thaw the pipe. Start at the faucet and work your way back toward the frozen section. Never use an open flame or torch to thaw a pipe.
3. Call a Professional: If you can’t locate the frozen section, or if the pipe has burst, it’s time to call a plumber. A professional can safely thaw your pipes and repair any damage.

Preventing Future Issues

After taking steps to prevent frozen pipes, it’s important to stay vigilant throughout the winter. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, and take extra precautions when extreme cold is expected. Regular maintenance and inspections can help you avoid any surprises and keep your plumbing system in good shape.

Tip: Consider having a professional plumber inspect your pipes before the cold season begins to ensure everything is in good condition.

Why Choose Best Care for Your Plumbing Needs

At Best Care, we understand how important it is to protect your home from the winter cold. Our expert team has years of experience in preventing and repairing frozen pipes, and we’re here to help you keep your home safe and warm. Whether you need advice on how to protect your pipes or emergency repairs, we’re just a phone call away. As featured on FOX 13 and WREG, our services are trusted by homeowners throughout Memphis.

Stay Warm and Worry-Free This Winter

Protecting your home from frozen pipes doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple tips, you can keep your pipes safe and avoid the costly damage that a burst pipe can cause. If you need help or have questions about your plumbing system, don’t hesitate to reach out to Best Care. We’re here to help you breathe easier this winter, knowing your home is well-protected.