We wanted to pass on some winter plumbing tips to help prevent cold weather plumbing issues. During the colder months of the year, it is incredibly important to insulate all accessible pipes. Pipe insulation can help prevent your pipes from freezing in cold weather. Running a steady stream of hot and cold water can help prevent your pipes from freezing. However, smaller pipes run a greater risk of freezing, so you should insulate well. If you have experienced frozen pipes in the past, you know exactly what we are referring to.
If your pipes are not insulated it is possible that they will freeze, even with water dripping. To insulate your pipes you can use a variety of materials. Mineral Wool, Glass Wool, Polyethylene, Flexible Foams, Rigid Foams and Aerogel. Even with these installed to help insulate, your pipes can still freeze if water is not moving through them to keep them warm.
There are other benefits if you choose to use pipe insulation. Insulation can also increase the efficiency of your water heater and in turn save you money.
Studies show that for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit that your water heater is reduced, it will save you 3-5% on your bill. Pipe insulation probably won’t get you 10 degrees, but it should give you a drop of about 4 degrees. Well say this is about 2% of reduction in your bill. Pipe insulation can help you save money and prevent your pipes from freezing, causing costly repairs.
If you need your pipes repaired because they were frozen and burst, or if you would like us to apply pipe insulation to your pipes, please give us a call to schedule an appointment. 972-681-4434
Total Plumbing has over 40 years of plumbing experience and serves Dallas, Rockwall, Plano, Mesquite, Garland, Richardson and surrounding DFW areas.
