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In New England, the brutal cold doesn't just stress your heating system—it poses a significant threat to your home's entire plumbing network. Frozen pipes are one of the most common and devastating winter emergencies, leading to extensive water damage and expensive repairs when they inevitably burst. The good news is that preventing a burst pipe is often far simpler and cheaper than dealing with the aftermath. By taking proactive steps now, you can safeguard your home against the worst of winter.
Identifying Your Home's Risk Zones
Not all pipes are equally vulnerable. In your Massachusetts or New Hampshire home, water lines that run through unheated or poorly insulated areas are at the highest risk. Knowing where these zones are allows you to focus your prevention efforts efficiently.
High-risk areas often include:
Pipes located in exterior walls, especially on the north side of the house.
Water supply lines running through garages, crawl spaces, or attics.
Piping near drafts, foundation vents, or large openings.
Outdoor faucets and the hoses connected to them.
Even a slow drip can freeze solid faster than standing water, so addressing any existing leaks is a critical first step.
Simple Steps for Pipe Insulation and Protection
The most effective strategy against frozen pipes is to keep the heat in and the cold out. Simple, inexpensive insulation techniques can provide a powerful layer of protection against freezing temperatures.
To protect vulnerable pipes:
Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use foam pipe sleeves or heat tape on any visible water lines in cold areas like basements, crawl spaces, or utility rooms.
Seal Drafts: Locate and seal air leaks near pipes using caulk or weather stripping. Pay special attention to holes where cables or pipes enter the house.
Disconnect Hoses: Completely disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor faucets, drain them, and store them indoors. Then, shut off the interior water supply valve leading to the outdoor spigot.
Open Cabinets: When temperatures drop dramatically, open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer indoor air to circulate around the plumbing beneath the sinks.
What to Do During a Severe Cold Snap
During extreme, prolonged cold snaps, you may need to take temporary measures to keep water moving and prevent freezing overnight. These steps are a small inconvenience compared to the cost of a major water line repair.
Run a Drip: Allow a small trickle of cold water to run overnight from a faucet connected to at-risk plumbing. Moving water is much less likely to freeze than still water.
Maintain Heat: Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature day and night; dropping the temperature overnight can increase the risk of pipes freezing. If you leave your home, never set your thermostat lower than $55^{\circ}\text$ (around $13^{\circ}\text$).
Know Your Main Shutoff: Ensure every member of your household knows the location of the main water shutoff valve. If a pipe does burst, turning off the water immediately will minimize property damage.
If you suspect a pipe is frozen, avoid using a blowtorch or open flame. Use gentle heat sources like a hairdryer or heat lamp, and always call a licensed professional like A. Fagundes Plumbing & Heating Inc. if you cannot safely thaw the pipe or if it has already burst.
Fix It With Fagundes
Protecting your home from the devastating effects of burst pipes is an essential part of winter preparedness. For comprehensive plumbing inspections, water line maintenance, or emergency repair, trust the licensed professionals at A. Fagundes Plumbing & Heating Inc.. We provide the service and expertise you need for worry-free winters. Contact us today by calling (978) 350-5522.