With winter on the way, now is the perfect time to make sure your plumbing system is ready for freezing temperatures. In American Fork, UT, winterizing is essential because cold snaps can quickly freeze unprotected pipes. When water freezes, it expands with enough force to burst plumbing lines, causing major flooding and costly damage. The tips below explain how to protect your indoor and outdoor plumbing all season long.
Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Fixtures
Outdoor plumbing is the most vulnerable to freezing. Before temperatures drop, shut off the water supply to outdoor fixtures and drain them completely. Disconnect and store hoses so trapped water doesn’t freeze inside the hose bib or supply line.
Next, locate each outdoor fixture’s shut-off valve inside your home. These valves are usually found on the foundation wall where the exterior plumbing enters the house.
Newer homes often use ball valves with straight handles. Turning the handle a quarter turn so it sits perpendicular to the pipe shuts the water off. Older systems may have gate valves with round wheels that close by turning clockwise.
If a valve is stuck, try a small amount of lubricant. Avoid using excessive force, which can cause damage. If the valve still won’t move, call a plumber for assistance.
After closing the valves, go outside and fully open each hose bib until the water stops running. Close the bib afterward to prevent cold air from traveling up the pipe.
Most Utah homes now have frost-proof hose bibs, which extend farther inside the house to help prevent freezing. If you still have standard hose bibs, consider upgrading before winter or use an insulated cover for added protection.
Check That Pipes Are Fully Insulated
Pipes in crawl spaces, garages, attics, and other unconditioned areas should always be insulated. Foam pipe insulation is easy to install and helps keep water inside the pipes from freezing. Make sure there are no gaps, and secure the insulation with tape.
Foam insulation typically lasts five to ten years before breaking down, so it’s a good idea to inspect it annually. If you prefer not to crawl under the house, a plumber can inspect and insulate exposed lines for you.
Take Additional Precautions During a Cold Snap
When temperatures drop to around 20 degrees or below, an extra layer of protection can prevent frozen pipes. Leave a small trickle of water running from faucets located along exterior walls. Moving water is much less likely to freeze.
You can also open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls so warm indoor air can circulate around the pipes.
Consider Your Thermostat Settings
If you’re leaving home during cold weather, avoid setting the thermostat too low. Keep it at a minimum of 55 degrees Fahrenheit to protect plumbing in exterior walls or unconditioned spaces. A smart thermostat can help you monitor your home’s temperature remotely and make adjustments while you’re away.
Fully Winterize Your Plumbing System
If you’ll be away for an extended period, full winterization may be necessary. This involves shutting off the main water supply, opening all faucets to drain the lines, and flushing toilets until the tank and bowl are empty. This ensures that no standing water remains that could freeze and damage the system.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you turn on a faucet and no water comes out, you may have a frozen pipe. First, shut off the water to that branch or shut off the home’s main supply to reduce the risk of flooding if the pipe bursts.
If the frozen section is accessible, you can attempt to thaw it slowly with a hair dryer or warm towels. Never use open flames or anything that produces excessive heat. Even if you thaw the pipe successfully, it’s wise to call a plumber to check for cracks or leaks.
If you need help winterizing your plumbing or dealing with a frozen pipe, Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing is here for you. Our family-owned business has been serving American Fork and the surrounding areas since 1910, and we offer expert residential and commercial plumbing services. To schedule service, contact Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing today.
