How To Keep Pipes From Freezing Without Heat In Minnesota
Living in a sub-zero location like Minneapolis in the winter has potential plumbing hazards, such as frozen pipes. In emergencies like a power outage, plumbing problems become even more probable. Protecting your pipes from freezing is a must-do whether you rent an apartment or own a home. Otherwise, you might be in for an unexpected visit from your local plumber. Prevent a burst pipe in the Minnesota winter by following these six methods.
Drip cold water to keep pipes from freezing
The number one method to prevent freezing pipes without heat is to leave faucets dripping. It’s essential to have the cold water on because it’s far more likely to freeze than warm water. Allowing your cold water to flow slowly reduces the risk of freezing pipes, especially if you lose power. A steady stream will keep the water moving and prevents water from forming crystals.
If you’re worried about the cost, remember this pays off in the long run. While it may increase your water bill by a couple of bucks, it’ll beat having to pay a hefty price to replace your plumbing pipes!
Keep your plumbing close to a heat source.
In the case of an emergency, you may need to find alternative methods to heat your home. For example, power outages can make it much more challenging to prevent frozen pipes, so it’s essential to find a way to keep them warm. In a winter weather emergency, ensure your heating method (whether it’s a fireplace, a wood stove, or a kerosene heater) is located in the same room as your central plumbing. For instance, if you have water pipes in your basement where it’s hard to reach, setting up a space or candle heater will be enough to warm the pipes.
Open cabinets with access to water pipes.
Facing a frozen tundra outside? Chances are, your pipes are dealing with the frigid climates too. Keeping the cabinets under your sinks open is a good idea if your area is facing a severe cold front. This way, your home’s heat source can access the pipes below. Often, these plumbing pipes draw water from the outside, so the water keeps the pipes much colder than the indoor temperature. Dispersing the heat underneath your cabinets will keep the pipes warm when you’re home or on vacation.
Shut off all outdoor taps and drain valves
Taking care of your outdoor plumbing is essential since it is exposed to freezing temperatures. Before the winter freeze arrives, be sure to drain your outdoor valves completely. First, turn off the water to all of your outdoor taps to ensure that it won’t leak while it’s not in use. Then, detach all hoses and equipment and store them indoors for the season. Then, all you have to do is fully open the valves and let the water run out until the drip stops completely. Afterward, you can tightly twist the valves back closed.
Insulate your pipes
Did you know that you can insulate your pipes like you insulate your home to keep in heat? Believe it or not, your water pipes could also benefit from an extra layer. A local plumber can properly insulate pipes throughout your home, including those more susceptible to freezing, such as those in your basement or garage. Thermal insulation will reduce heat flow out of the pipes and slow the freezing process. In addition, the cold pipe insulation reduces pipe sweating, which reduces the risk of toxic mold growth.
Keep your house heated while you’re away.
If you’re planning on taking a holiday vacation, be sure to set your thermostat to a temperature that will protect your pipes while you’re away. The minimum temperature to keep pipes from freezing is just above 20℉, so if your home stays at 20℉ for even a few hours, your piping is at risk. Before leaving home, set your thermostat to a minimum of 55℉ to ensure no water will be freezing. While you might not be saving as much as you’d like on your energy bill, you will be saving yourself the time and money of thawing or replacing your water pipes.
Let us do the work for you.
Preparing your home for winter is crucial in protecting your plumbing. Frozen pipes in Minnesota can be a disaster, but when you take steps to winterize your pipes for the season you save time and money. Instead of spending several nail-biting hours trying to defrost your pipes in a power outage, you’ll be at ease knowing your home is protected from the freeze.
At Mike’s Custom Mechanical, we do all things plumbing for residents of the greater Minneapolis area. So if you need your pipes winterized, our team will get it done. Contact us at (763) 568-7148 to learn more about how our team can help today.
