Pipe bursting is one of the worst plumbing problems you can encounter at home. According to HomeGuide, it would cost you $400 to $1,500 total to repair a burst pipe. In addition, you will also have to pay for the damage cleanup and repair, with homeowners spending between $1,000 to $2,000.
Frozen pipes that are left unfixed in winter can burst in spring as the warm temperature comes in.
Here are effective steps you can take to reduce the risk of burst pipes in your home:
Keep your home warm during cold weather
When leaving home for vacation, make sure to leave your furnace running. This will prevent your home’s plumbing from freezing when the temperature drops. However, leaving your heater on can increase your energy costs.
The United States Department of Energy recommends simply turning your thermostat back 7° to 10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting to save energy. By installing a programmable thermostat, you can easily control your home’s temperatures even when you’re away from home.
Don’t forget to insulate your pipes
Protect your plumbing pipes from cold weather as well as accidental bumps and scratches by applying insulation around them. Inexpensive foam insulation would be enough to prevent your pipes from freezing.
For severe climates, you should use a thermostatically controlled heat tape to wrap around your exposed pipes. When insulating pipes in your home, make sure to prioritize those that are located in unheated spaces, such as attics, crawlspaces, and garages.
Seal air leaks around your home
To prevent cold air from entering your home and reaching your water pipe locations, take the time to sear air leaks. According to the DOE, caulking and weatherstripping are two effective techniques for air sealing the home. It helps reduce air leakage as well as lower your energy costs.
Thaw frozen pipes right away
If you notice you have a frozen pipe, the first step you should do is attempt to thaw to it. This will prevent the pipe from bursting and causing expensive water damage to your residential property. StaySafe.org suggests using a hairdryer or placing a heater near the affected pipe until it has thawed.
Call a professional plumber
To reduce the risk of pipe bursting, be sure to invest in regular plumbing care and maintenance. Besides taking preventive measures at home, it is very important to report any signs of potential burst pipes to your trusted local plumber. The experts will be able to locate potential pipe bursts quickly and prevent them from happening.
Schedule a professional plumbing repair today
Have you noticed any signs you might have a burst pipe at home? The top signs of a burst water pipe include stains on walls, low water pressure, water discoloration, strange plumbing odors, and high water bills.
Upon noticing any of these signs, schedule a plumbing repair right away. Addressing burst pipe problems during their early stage can help prevent expensive water loss and damages to your property. Call your trusted plumbing expert now!
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