Maeser’s tips to keep your pipes from freezing

Hopefully the Polar Vortex deep freeze is over for the winter of 2014. Maeser worked non-stop to repair frozen pipes or to prevent them from further damaging your home. There were days we took over 1000 calls from our loyal customers with plumbing issues. Thank you for trusting us with your home. As home-comfort experts, we suggest you review how to prevent your pipes from freezing so this won’t be you the next time we have bitter cold temperatures.

There are three causes of frozen pipes: poor insulation, a quick drop in
temperature and the thermostat is set too low. Be aware that any time
temperatures dip to 32 degrees, unprotected pipes are vulnerable to freezing, especially when you factor in the wind chill.

We are seeing insufficient insulation in attics, crawl spaces and on pipes
that are situated on an outside wall. Consider purchasing pre-cut foam insulation for your pipes. It is inexpensive and easy to install.
Maeser also suggests sealing leaks in your home’s foundation that allows the cold air to come inside. You can use spray foam insulation or cold-weather caulking. Take care not to cover vents as this could cause dangerous results. If you are unsure, find a professional or err on the side of caution. There are several cut-off valves in your home, however, knowing where the main water shut-off valve could keep your home from extensive damage if a
pipe were to burst. Every person in the household should know where this valve is located. Tag the valve with a Maeser Emergency Shut-Off tag so it is easily seen.

Another suggestion is to be careful when turning your outside spigots on in the Spring. It is possible your pipes were damaged and there were no outward signs during the bitter cold. If water doesn’t flow out of your spigots, this may reveal pipe damage. Again, know the location of your main water cut-off valve.

So many of our customers endured this harsh winter with damage to their pipes and home. We hope you will consider our suggestions to make the next winter season worry-free and know that we are here if you need a home-comfort expert.