Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes While on Vacation in Marble?

12/12/2023 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24 hours a day in Itasca County.

Our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing teams are trusted water damage restoration services leaders. For years, residents in Marble have relied on us to restore water damage. During the winter months, frozen pipes are a common challenge. Here are some tips for preventing frozen pipes while on vacation:

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Insulate any exposed pipes in your home, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces.

Maintain a Warm House

Set your thermostat to a temperature that is at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit or higher to ensure your home stays warm. This will help prevent pipes from freezing.

Seal Leaks and Cracks

Inspect your home for any drafts, gaps, or cracks that could allow cold air to enter. Seal these openings with caulk or weatherstripping to keep the warm air inside.

Leave Cabinet Doors Open

For pipes located under sinks or in cabinets, leave the cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around them.

Drip Faucets

Allow a small trickle of water to flow from your faucets, both hot and cold. This constant flow can help prevent freezing.

Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

If you have outdoor hoses connected to faucets, disconnect them and drain any remaining water. Consider installing freeze-proof hose bibs.

Insulate the Garage

If your plumbing runs through the garage, insulate the garage doors and any exposed pipes in this area.

Shut Off the Main Water Supply

If you plan to be away for an extended period, consider shutting off the main water supply to your home. This will prevent water from entering your plumbing system and freezing.

Drain the Pipes

If you're going to be away for a long time during the coldest months, you can drain your plumbing system entirely. Turn off the water supply, open all faucets, and flush toilets to empty the pipes.

Ask a Neighbor or Friend for Help

Enlist the help of a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to periodically check on your home while you're away. They can ensure that the heat is working and there are no issues with frozen pipes.

Install a Temperature Monitoring System

Consider installing a temperature monitoring system that can alert you if the temperature in your home drops below a certain threshold. Some smart home devices can provide this functionality.

Prepare for Power Outages:

In case of power outages during winter storms, have a backup power source like a generator to keep your heating system running. By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes while you're on vacation and protect your home from potential water damage and costly repairs.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial property in Marble has a water damage emergency from frozen pipes, our local Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Hibbing team will restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 218-999-9799. 

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