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Although winter can be beautiful, the season brings with it an increased risk of frozen pipes and damaged plumbing. When the water inside your pipes freezes, it expands, straining the component itself. When the material is damaged or has a weak spot, the cold weather can quickly cause a burst pipe, resulting in surprise leaks on your property. Luckily, this issue is relatively easy to prevent, and the team at All American Plumbing in Concord, NC, wants to help. Below, they share a few simple steps you can take to keep your pipes in good condition this winter.

5 Tips for Preventing a Burst Pipe at Home

1. Open the Cabinets

Keeping your pipes warm is the easiest way to keep them from freezing. Open the cabinets beneath the sink to expose the pipes to the heat in your home. For slight freezes, this should be enough to keep the components in good condition and reduce the risk of cracks or damage.

2. Use Heat Tape

If you have exposed pipes outside your home, use heat tape to keep them warm in freezing conditions. This electrical tape sends heat to the pipes when the temperatures reach low enough numbers, much like a heat lamp. Though it’s not foolproof, it can help during hard freezes or extended periods of cold weather.

3. Let the Faucet Drip

Burst PipeUnder normal circumstances, a dripping faucet can be a problem. But when the temperatures drop, it’s actually helpful. When the faucet is turned off, pressure can build in the pipe. Letting the tap drip helps relieve the pressure, and while it won’t keep the pipes from freezing, it typically keeps them from bursting.

4. Double-Check Seals

Cracks or holes near the plumbing system allow cold air to get inside, putting your pipes at risk. Check the surrounding areas, and seal up any openings you find. If the problem is due to water damage, or you discover a leak that’s worsening the cracks, contact a professional immediately.

5. Turn Up the Heat

Leaving your home too cold or forgetting to increase the thermostat before the temperatures drop can allow your pipes to freeze inside. To avoid this issue, set the thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep your house warm enough to prevent damaged plumbing without significantly raising your energy bill.

If you have a burst pipe, or you’re concerned about an existing leak in your home, let the team at All American Plumbing take care of the damage. Their experienced contractors will quickly inspect and repair the issue to keep your home and family safe. Visit their website to learn more about their services, and give them a call at (704) 788-8690 to schedule a plumbing inspection today.

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