Every year, approximately 250,000 homes experience damage caused by frozen pipes, according to State Farm Insurance. As the water inside these pipes expands, it can cause flooding from broken pipes. There is no way to ensure this never occurs in Albuquerque, but there are things you can do to prevent this from happening. The steps below may be able to prevent frozen pipes and flooding this winter.
#1: Drain outdoor water
Outdoor pipes are obviously more susceptible to freezing. Take some time to drain sprinkler supply lines, swimming pools, and outdoor hose bibs. It is also wise to drain your hoses and store them in a covered spot.
#2: Install pipe sleeves or heat tape to exposed pipes
If there are pipes in your home that are visible, take extra care to insulate them. You can use heat tape or pipe sleeves to provide extra protection from chilly weather.
#3: Monitor your thermostat
Winter is not the right time to save money on utilities by turning off your thermostat. If you ever are out of town, make sure it is not set to anything lower than 55 degrees.
#4: Consider adding insulation
Are your basement, attic, or crawl space in need of insulation? If so, you should consider adding some. Doing this won’t just lower the possibility of frozen or broken pipes, it will also help lessen the blow of what your pay for utilities.
#5: Be prepared
If you see a slow trickle when you open a faucet, you may have a frozen pipe. With the faucet open, apply heat to the pipe with a hair dryer or electric heating pad. (Do not use an open flame device.) Monitor the open faucet and maintain heat until water pressure returns.
Contact Paul Davis Restoration of New Mexico as soon as possible if you experience a broken pipe in your Albuquerque property. Our water restoration services can provide immediate assistance and get you back on your feet soon.