Preventing Frozen Pipes

6 Insights from a Trusted New Jersey Plumber

Bracing for the winter in the Garden State means more than just pulling out your warm coats. As any experienced New Jersey plumber will tell you, the plummeting temperatures bring the risk of frozen pipes. This common problem can lead to inconvenient and costly repairs. In this blog post, we’ll explore essential steps to prevent frozen pipes, drawing on the expertise of seasoned New Jersey plumbers, Jersey Boys Plumbing, Heating, and Air.

1. Insulate Your Pipes:

• Why Insulation Matters: Insulation is your first defense against freezing temperatures. A New Jersey plumber would advise focusing on pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages.
• Types of Insulation: Foam pipe insulation is a cost-effective and easy-to-install option. For extra protection, especially in the coldest parts of New Jersey, plumbers recommend heat tape or heat cables.

2. Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperatures:

• Thermostat Settings: Keep your home’s thermostat set to a consistent temperature day and night. A little extra in heating costs is preferable to the expense and hassle of dealing with burst pipes.
• Cabinet Doors Strategy: A simple trick from your New Jersey plumber: open the cabinet doors under your sinks to let warm air circulate around the pipes.

3. Let the Faucets Drip:

• Prevent Ice Formation: A dripping faucet encourages water movement, making it harder for ice to form. This is a classic tip from any New Jersey plumber for preventing frozen pipes.
• Selective Dripping: Focus on faucets with pipes running through unheated or exterior areas like your garage or basement.

4. Seal Your Home Against the Cold:

• Check for Drafts: An experienced New Jersey plumber knows that drafts can accelerate pipe freezing. Inspect your home for gaps and cracks, especially where pipes enter, and seal them.
• Extra Wall Insulation: Consider adding extra insulation to walls that house water pipes. This is particularly effective in older New Jersey homes.

5. Outdoor Pipes Need Attention Too:

• Hose and Faucet Care: Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets. Your New Jersey plumber would recommend using interior shut-off valves for these faucets to prevent freezing.
• Cover Exposed Pipes: For pipes that cannot be drained or shut off, insulation or heat tape is essential.

6. Be Prepared for Emergencies:

• Know Your Shut-Off Valve: In case a pipe does freeze, knowing where your main water shut-off valve is can save you from extensive damage.
• Professional Help: For any concerns or emergency plumbing situations, contact a trusted New Jersey plumber like Jersey Boys. We have the expertise to handle frozen pipes effectively and prevent future issues.

Call Jersey Boys Plumbing, Heating, and Air Before Your Pipes Freeze!

Preventing frozen pipes is a crucial part of winter preparation in New Jersey. By following these guidelines, and with the help of a knowledgeable New Jersey plumber like Jersey Boys, you can avoid the inconvenience and expense of frozen and burst pipes. Remember, when it comes to plumbing, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Stay warm and stay prepared, and for any plumbing needs, don’t hesitate to call Jersey Boys!