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How to Prepare for Frozen Pipes in Winter
New Jersey winters can be harsh, with temperatures often dipping well below freezing. For homeowners, one of the most common winter-related plumbing problems is frozen pipes. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, which can lead to bursts and significant damage to your plumbing system. In this blog, we’ll discuss why frozen pipes are so common in New Jersey winters and share some practical tips to prepare and protect your home from the costly consequences of frozen pipes.
Why Frozen Pipes Are Common in New Jersey Winters
Frozen pipes are a major concern during New Jersey’s winter months, and for good reason. As temperatures drop, water inside uninsulated or poorly insulated pipes can freeze. Water expands when it freezes, placing immense pressure on the pipes and making them susceptible to bursting. The damage can lead to flooding, costly repairs, and major water loss.
Several factors contribute to the frequency of frozen pipes in New Jersey homes:
- Cold Temperatures: New Jersey winters often bring freezing temperatures, especially during cold snaps. Pipes exposed to these conditions are at a higher risk of freezing.
- Unheated Areas: Many homes have pipes running through basements, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets—areas that are typically not heated. These spaces are particularly vulnerable when temperatures plummet.
- Exposure to Exterior Walls: Pipes running along exterior walls or through poorly insulated areas are even more susceptible to freezing, as they are directly affected by the cold outside.
How to Prepare for Frozen Pipes in New Jersey
The good news is that there are several preventative measures you can take to protect your pipes from freezing. With a little preparation, you can help prevent the disruption and damage caused by frozen pipes.
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: One of the best ways to prevent pipes from freezing is to insulate them. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to cover any exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages. This extra layer of protection helps maintain the temperature around the pipes and prevents them from freezing.
- Open Cabinet Doors: During extreme cold, open the cabinet doors under sinks, especially those along exterior walls. This allows warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes and helps keep them from freezing.
- Let Faucets Drip: When temperatures dip below freezing, let a faucet drip slightly to keep water flowing through the pipes. The constant flow of water makes it less likely that the pipes will freeze. This is especially important for faucets located near exterior walls.
- Check for Leaks: Before winter sets in, inspect your pipes for any signs of leaks or damage. Even small leaks can get worse when exposed to freezing temperatures, so it’s best to address them before they become bigger problems.
- Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Disconnect and drain garden hoses before the first freeze of the season. Hoses left attached to outdoor faucets can cause the pipes inside the home to freeze. Make sure the outdoor faucet is also drained of water to prevent it from freezing.
- Maintain a Consistent Thermostat: Keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature, even when you’re not home. Fluctuating temperatures can increase the risk of freezing pipes. It’s a good idea to set it no lower than 55°F (13°C) during the winter months.
- Use Heat Tape for Vulnerable Pipes: For pipes that are particularly at risk of freezing, consider using heat tape or a similar product designed to warm the pipes. These products can be installed along pipes in areas with poor insulation to keep them warm during the coldest months.
What to Do If You Suspect a Frozen Pipe
If you suspect that a pipe in your home has frozen, it’s important to take immediate action. Follow these steps to avoid further damage:
- Locate the Frozen Pipe: Identify the area where the water has stopped flowing. If you have a section of pipe that is exposed to the cold, that’s likely where the freezing has occurred. Check unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, or under sinks.
- Apply Heat Gradually: Never use an open flame or high-heat methods like a blowtorch to thaw a frozen pipe. Instead, apply gentle heat by using a hairdryer, warm towels, or a heating pad. Start from the area closest to the faucet and work your way back toward the frozen section. Be patient and apply heat gradually to avoid damaging the pipe.
- Call a Professional Plumber: If you’re unable to safely thaw the pipe or if you notice any cracks or leaks after thawing, contact a professional plumber immediately. Frozen pipes can cause extensive damage if not addressed properly, and it’s best to let a professional handle the situation if you suspect the pipe may have burst.
How JC Alvar Construction Can Help
At JC Alvar Construction, we understand the challenges New Jersey homeowners face during the winter months, particularly when it comes to frozen pipes. Our experienced team offers emergency plumbing services 24/7, ensuring that you don’t have to wait long for help when things go wrong. Whether you need assistance preparing your pipes for winter or require immediate plumbing repairs due to a frozen pipe, we’re here to help.
Don’t let frozen pipes disrupt your winter season. Contact JC Alvar Construction today for expert plumbing services and peace of mind. We’re here to ensure your home stays warm, dry, and free from the damaging effects of frozen pipes.
Call us today at (732) 238-7892 for fast, reliable service—available 24/7!
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