The first frost is a signal that the cold season is on its way. For Macungie homeowners, it is also a good reminder to take a look at your pipes. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and can cause the pipe to crack or burst, and a burst pipe can release a large amount of water into a home in a short time. A few basic steps taken now can lower that risk.

Why Pipes Freeze

Pipes are most at risk when they are in unheated or poorly insulated areas, such as exterior walls, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and unfinished basements. Pipes in these places can freeze when temperatures drop to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, especially when cold air leaks in nearby. Outdoor faucets and the pipes that feed them are also common trouble spots.

Pipe Insulation Basics

Find the Vulnerable Pipes

Walk through the home and note where pipes run through unheated spaces or along exterior walls. Look in the basement, crawl space, attic, garage, and under sinks on exterior walls.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Foam pipe sleeves are an inexpensive, easy-to-install option for many exposed pipes. Fiberglass wrap and other pipe insulation products are also available. Choose insulation sized to the pipe, cover as much of the pipe as you can, and fit it snugly with the seams sealed. Keep in mind that insulation slows heat loss. It does not generate heat, so it will not prevent freezing during extended extreme cold.

Seal Air Leaks

Cold air blowing in around pipes can speed up freezing. Seal gaps and cracks where pipes enter the home, and check around dryer vents, cable lines, and foundation vents.

Be Careful with Heat Tape

Electric heat tape or heating cable can help in certain situations, but it must be used exactly as the manufacturer directs, since misuse can create a fire hazard. If you are unsure, ask a licensed plumber.

Don't Forget the Outdoors

• Disconnect garden hoses and store them for the winter.
• If your home has an interior shutoff valve for outdoor faucets, close it and drain the line as directed.
• Consider insulated covers for outdoor spigots that cannot be shut off from inside.

During a Cold Snap

• Keep the thermostat set to a steady temperature, even if you are away. A common recommendation is not going below about 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls so warm air can reach the pipes.
• Let a faucet drip slightly if a pipe is at risk. Moving water is harder to freeze.
• Know where your main water shutoff valve is, and make sure everyone in the household knows too.

If a Pipe Freezes or Bursts

If water stops flowing or only trickles from a faucet, a pipe may be frozen. If a pipe bursts, shut off the main water supply right away, turn off electricity to affected areas if you can do so safely, and move belongings out of the way. Photograph the damage and contact your insurance company. Wet building materials should be dried promptly, since mold can begin to grow within about 48 hours.

ServiceMaster Assured Cleaning and Restoration provides water damage restoration for Macungie and the surrounding Southeastern Pennsylvania communities, including water extraction, structural drying, and repairs. We have served local homes for more than 30 years and are available 24/7 for emergencies.

Dealing with a burst pipe or water damage in Macungie? Contact ServiceMaster Assured Cleaning and Restoration any time, day or night, for help.