Florida may not experience the harsh winters of northern states, but when a Florida cold snap hits, your plumbing system can still be at risk. Even brief periods of freezing temperatures can lead to frozen pipes, burst pipes, and expensive repairs. Taking the right precautions before the onset of cold weather can help prevent damage to your water lines, outdoor faucets, and water heater. Here’s how to keep your pipes safe with Complete Plumbing and Drain when Florida’s temperatures take an unexpected dip.
Why Freezing Weather Is a Risk for Florida Plumbing
Many Florida homes are not built to withstand cold temperatures, making their water supply lines more vulnerable to freezing. Pipes in crawl spaces, unheated areas, exterior walls, and outside faucets are especially at risk.
When a pipe freezes, the expanding ice can cause cracks or breaks, leading to main breaks and costly damage.
What are the Steps to Protect Your Plumbing During a Florida Cold Snap?
We thought you’d never ask. Here are 5 steps you can take before the next cold snap. This way, you will be prepared for next year and the years to come!
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
One of the best ways to prevent a frozen pipe is to insulate any exposed water supply lines and outdoor pipes. Use pipe sleeves, heat tape, or similar materials to add a degree of insulation to vulnerable areas. You can find these specific products at your local hardware store. Ensuring lead service lines and lead pipes are properly insulated can also prevent damage.
2. Keep Warm Air Circulating Indoors
During freezing weather, allow warmer air to reach pipes by keeping bathroom cabinet doors and kitchen cabinets open. This helps heat from your home prevent freezing in under-sink plumbing. If your home has an open kitchen layout, this will be especially effective. Running a slight drip of cold water from faucets during extreme cold can also prevent pipe freezes by keeping water moving through the system.
3. Disconnect and Store Outdoor Hoses
Before winter arrives, store hoses in a dry place and cover outdoor hose bibs with faucet covers. Forgetting to take this simple step can cause outdoor faucets and attached water sprinkler supply lines to freeze, leading to breaks in your water system.
4. Seal Off Drafts and Keep Heat In
Inspect your home for cold air leaks, especially around outside walls. Use metal plates or other insulation materials to cover drafty areas near the plumbing. If necessary, use a portable space heater in unheated areas to provide significant protection against freezing.
5. Know How to Shut Off Your Water
Familiarize yourself with your main water shut-off valve in case of emergencies. If a pipe bursts, shutting off your water service quickly can minimize damage and prevent a much more costly repair job.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle of water comes out, you may have a frozen pipe. Here’s what to do:
- Apply warm air to the frozen section using a hair dryer or portable space heater. Never use an open flame, as it can damage pipes and ignite flammable materials.
- Keep faucets open to encourage drain water flow as the ice melts.
- If you cannot locate or thaw the frozen section, call a licensed plumber for assistance.
Preventing Costly Repairs in the Long Run
Routine maintenance is another way to help prevent costly repairs and higher water bills. Scheduling a professional inspection with Complete Plumbing and Drain ensures your pipes are prepared for winter weather, even if it is only a Florida cold snap. A professional plumber can also recommend pipe insulation solutions, check for main valve issues, and advise on the best harmful cleaner alternatives to protect your plumbing system.
Stay Prepared for a Florida Cold Snap
Especially in Florida, winter temperatures can be unpredictable. Taking simple steps to protect your pipes can save you from the hassle and expense of a burst pipe. If you need help winterizing your plumbing, Complete Plumbing and Drain is ready to assist with expert services. Contact us today to ensure your plumbing is winter-ready and avoid unnecessary expensive repairs!