When outside temperatures dip below freezing, homes in Hampton Roads, VA are often more susceptible to pipes freezing and bursting than you might expect. Unlike northern climates, where the pipes are located inside the building insulation to protect against frigid temps, pipes in milder coastal regions are more likely to be found in unprotected areas outside the building insulation, making them more vulnerable when a cold snap strikes.
The pipes most at risk are those in uninsulated or unheated spaces, such as attics, garages, crawl spaces and outside walls. This is especially true if there are cracks or holes that allow outside air and wind to come into contact with pipes, or if the temperature inside your home drops too low.
How to Prepare Your Pipes for Winter in Hampton Roads, VA
Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take as a homeowner to prepare your pipes for winter.
Insulate Pipes
You can install pipe insulation or heat tape to protect vulnerable pipes. Most local hardware stores and home centers carry foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves, or you can pick up extra-thick insulation from a plumbing supply store.
Keep Garage Doors Closed
Every time the garage is opened, it exposes bare pipes to a blast of cold air. So, it’s best to keep your garage doors closed as much as possible during extremely cold weather, especially if you have finished living space above the garage.
Open Cabinet Doors
The cabinets in your kitchen and bathroom are usually not heated, so pipes under sinks can be susceptible to freezing, especially if they are located on an exterior wall. By leaving cabinet doors open, warmer air from inside your house can circulate around the plumbing.
Allow Faucets to Drip
If it is extremely cold outside, running water from the faucet – even at a trickle – can help protect pipes that run through an unheated or unprotected space. Water can still freeze inside the pipe, but opening the faucet will provide relief from the pressure and prevent bursting.
Seal Cracks & Add Insulation
Insulating attics, basements, garages and crawl spaces will help maintain the temperature in these areas, and even lower your heating bills. To prevent drafts, seal openings around windows and doors, and use sill plates where the foundation has settled.
Set the Thermostat When Away
If you’ll be away from your home for an extended period of time, be careful how much you lower the heat. We recommend setting the thermostat to a temperature no lower than 55°F to protect pipes in the event of a deep freeze.
Prepare Your Home for Winter with Extreme Climates
Protecting vulnerable pipes is just one step in preparing your Hampton Roads home for winter. It’s also important to have your heating system professionally serviced before severe weather strikes.
To ensure your heating system is ready for whatever winter brings, contact the HVAC experts at Extreme Climates. We can conduct a thorough check of your system, and perform regular heating maintenance and repairs, as well as heating system installation and replacement.
For reliable and affordable heating services in Yorktown, Gloucester, Williamsburg and throughout Hampton Roads, VA, give us a call at (757) 833-0058 or send us a message.