Checking Your Water Pipes In The Winter Could Save You Thousands

1/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Darien/New Canaan is Available to Clean Up Water Damage 24/7.

Winter is here and we are once again preparing for a major snow storm in the north east. In the past few weeks, temperatures have fallen below freezing. Pipes can freeze when exposed to colder temperatures, especially during power outages.

When water freezes within water supply line pipes, it can cause them to burst. The water pressure within the pipes causes water to leak or spray out, this can lead to serious, expensive damage to your commercial or residential property. This could include water damage, power loss and more.

Here are a few tried-and-true tips that we recommend to prevent this type of damage from happening to your property.

• Even if the heat is working well, make sure you check your pipes - As the temperature drops, pipes can freeze quietly. Although people may not be aware that their pipes are freezing, it can cause a cascade effect and lead to thousands of dollars worth of damage. It is important to check your pipes every winter. You can avoid costly and complicated water damage by recognizing frozen pipes early.
• Insulate and install electric pipe heating cables where needed - If you are aware of pipes that are exposed to colder temperatures and they are within reach it can be easy to insulate these pipes to reduce risk of a pipe burst.
• Make sure you close the valve on the hose bib - Your piping will have a small faucet attached to it called the hosebib. Although not all houses have one of these, hose bibs are the most vulnerable parts of your pipes to freezing. It is a good idea to turn them off before winter. They are not supposed to be turned off during winter. No worries. Installing an interior shutoff valve is easy. This will allow water to flow through the pipe without freezing or bursting. For instructions on installing these valves, speak with your local HVAC technician or public adjuster.

If you do suffer water damage, when filing a claim, make sure you have proof that you took care of your pipes. Many insurance policies cover burst pipes so you might be eligible for compensation. Make sure to have proof that you have paid your heating bill and other utility bills before you file your claim. These documents will be required by your insurance company to prove that you weren't negligent so have them ready before filing.