Want to keep your home operating correctly throughout the winter? Call Green Energy Mechanical Inc. at 781-236-3421 for reliable heating, cooling, and plumbing services.
Temperatures in Massachusetts can drop below freezing during the winter. Just as you try to find ways to stay warm, some elements of your home require extra heat and attention. These elements include the pipes that make up your plumbing network.
If you don’t take the necessary precautions, the cold winter weather can cause several issues. For example, plumbing problems often occur, leaving many homeowners wondering, “Why do pipes burst in the winter?” We have the answers to help you stay up-to-date on your home maintenance this winter.
Below, we discuss the cause of bursting pipes, how to detect them, and some plumbing maintenance do’s and don’ts that can help you prevent the issue. For more information, call the skilled plumbers in Canton at Green Energy Mechanical Inc.
What Causes Pipes to Burst in the Winter?
Why do pipes burst in the winter? Bursting pipes stem from cold weather. When temperatures drop, the water inside your pipes freezes and expands.
However, the expansion of water as it freezes isn’t enough to burst your pipes on its own. Instead, the ice creates blockages within your plumbing system. The blockages create immense pressure when you have a closed faucet or a shower that isn’t running. Eventually, that pressure is enough to crack and burst your pipes.
How to Detect Freezing Pipes Before They Burst
Though pipes can freeze overnight as temperatures drop rapidly, your plumbing system will typically freeze in separate parts and at different times. This means that if you’re aware of the signs, you may be able to address the issue before your pipes burst. Keep an eye out for the following:
- Reduced water pressure from your faucets and showers
- Frost forming on the exterior of visible pipes
- Odd or foul odors coming from your faucets or drains
Whether or not you spot any of these warning signs, you can take steps to prevent bursting pipes.
Preventing Bursting Pipes: Do’s
Insulate Your Plumbing System
Insulation is vital in preventing your plumbing pipes from freezing. You can purchase and install various insulation materials to keep your pipes warm. If you don’t want to insulate your entire plumbing system, consider insulation in colder areas of your home, such as attics and basements.
Allow Your Faucets to Drip
As we discussed, bursting occurs due to the buildup of pressure between closed faucets and ice in your pipes. If your pipes do freeze, turning on your faucets slightly and allowing them to drip can release the pressure and prevent bursting. A slow drip can go a long way in protecting your pipes without significantly impacting your water bill.
Keep Your Doors Open
While most homeowners don’t think about it, keeping the doors open inside your home can save your pipes. Whether you’re away from home or lounging around the house, leaving the doors open allows heat to travel more freely and efficiently. This helps warm your entire home, including your plumbing system, and prevents pipes from freezing and bursting.
Preventing Bursting Pipes: Don’ts
Don’t Leave Your Garage Open
While keeping interior doors open helps heat travel throughout your home, leaving the garage door open lets heat escape and cold air enter. Many homes even have piping in the garage, making it a prime location for freezing and pressure buildup. Whenever you leave or return home, close that garage door as quickly as possible.
Don’t Lower the Thermostat
While you’ll likely keep the thermostat at a warm temperature while you’re home, many homeowners like to lower it when they leave for work or a holiday vacation. However, lowering the thermostat puts your water pipes at a high risk of freezing. Although you may save some money on your utility bill, you’ll spend much more on replacing burst pipes and repairing water damage.
As a general rule of thumb, keep your thermostat set no lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the winter. However, a temperature in the 60s or above is more effective at preventing frozen water molecules.
Call Green Energy Mechanical Inc. Today
Hopefully, this article answered the question, “Why do pipes burst in the winter?” Stick to the do’s and don’ts to prevent bursting pipes, and keep an eye out for signs of freezing.
Call our team at Green Energy Mechanical Inc. at 781-236-3421 for frozen pipe repair if you notice any warning signs.
Author Bio:
Jonathan Neves
Worked in the HVAC industry since he was 17. He started as an HVAC service technician for commercial buildings and eventually came into the residential market because of his love of working with people. He believes that what really sets Green Energy Mechanical apart is how long they stand behind their work and how compassionate his employees are for their clients.
