It’s that frigid time of year again, when pipes shudder and whispers of burst disasters circulate. We dutifully turn on the cold-water drip, a soothing rhythm against the winter’s icy onslaught. But hold on! Are you neglecting your hot water, leaving it vulnerable to a frosty fate? And, are you sure you’re dripping enough faucets?
Many fall into the trap of assuming only cold pipes need winter TLC. In reality, ignoring your hot water is a recipe for plumbing peril. While cold water freezes at 32°F (0°C), hot water, depending on its temperature, can remain liquid even at significantly lower temperatures. However, this static state becomes a breeding ground for trouble. Ice crystals start forming, expanding within the pipes, and boom! You’re facing a geyser of hot (and expensive) chaos.
Don’t forget, it’s not just about hot vs. cold! The location of your pipes matters too.
- Always drip at least one faucet, ideally the furthest from your water main, when temperatures dip below freezing (32°F or 0°C). Remember, even the slightest trickle can keep water moving and prevent ice crystals from forming.
- If pipes are exposed or particularly vulnerable, consider dripping additional faucets, especially those on exterior walls or in unheated areas.
- For sub-zero temperatures (below 14°F or -10°C), a thin but constant stream of water is your best defense. Don’t let the pipes become stagnant even with the extra chill.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
- Around 250,000 US homes suffer from burst pipes annually, with winter being the prime culprit.
- A significant portion of these bursts are due to neglected hot water pipes or insufficient dripping.
Hot Leaks vs. Cold Leaks: Double the Trouble
While both leaks cause headaches, hot water leaks present a unique set of challenges:
- Mold Growth: Hot, humid environments are a haven for mold, which can lead to respiratory problems and expensive remediation.
- Warped Materials: Hot water can quickly damage wood, drywall, and other building materials, leading to extensive repairs.
Bonus Tips for Winter Plumbing Protection
- Insulate exposed pipes: Add warmth with pipe sleeves or foam wrap, especially those near exterior walls or crawl spaces.
- Seal air leaks: Check for drafts around plumbing entry points and seal them to prevent cold air from reaching pipes.
- Open cabinet doors: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes located in cabinets or under sinks.
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses: This eliminates the risk of water freezing and bursting inside the hose or faucet.
- Consider a smart thermostat: Program it to automatically lower the heat in unoccupied rooms, reducing the risk of pipes freezing in unused spaces.
Remember, prevention is key!
By embracing the hot-and-cold drip dance, dripping strategically throughout your home, and implementing these bonus tips, you can ensure your pipes waltz through winter without a frosty misstep. Oh, and one more thing to consider: a single burst pipe claim can lead to an average 10.5% increase in your insurance rates. So, drip smart and save big! Stay warm, stay informed, and keep your plumbing flowing freely all season long!
2024.01.18 – Johnathon Chung
