If you just purchased a home of your own, you are probably finding out there is a great deal of maintenance to be done to different systems and structures throughout your property. The piping system is one part of a household that needs a bit of extra care during cooler temperatures. If you fail to protect your pipes when temperatures go below freezing level, they are at risk of bursting due to the expansion of moisture inside of them as water turns into ice. Here are some steps you can take in keeping your pipes intact when temperatures are expected to plummet.

Take Care Of Lines Leading To The Exterior Of Your Home

Pipes that lead directly to the outside of your home are likely to freeze first when temperatures drop. Because of this, it is a good idea to turn off the water to any pipe that has a faucet outdoors for the winter. Turn the spigot of each these pipelines to the off position and turn the faucets outdoors to an on position so any water trapped inside the pipes will drain out in its entirety. Each pipe will remain empty throughout the wintertime, eliminating the risk of any type of bursting situation as a result. In the springtime, turn the spigots back on so your water can be used once again.

Wrap Pipes When Temperatures Are Expected To Drop

Exposed pipes are at risk of having the contained water turn to ice very rapidly if temperatures around them hover around the freezing mark or below. Wrapping your pipes with insulating tape or foam sleeves will assist in keeping the contents warm. If you have exposed pipes in your garage, basement, or a crawl space, they are in conditions where the temperature is usually lower than the rest of the home. Consider adding a heater to these areas to aid in keeping pipes from bursting. Pipes underneath kitchen or bathroom cabinets are also at risk as they are contained in a spot where heat is not abundant. Open these doors during cold weather to help keep pipes from bursting.

Keep Water Trickling To Keep It Moving

Turn on the cold water faucets in sinks or tubs in your home so water drips or trickles out of the faucets during colder weather. Since water will keep moving inside of the piping system, it is less likely to have a chance to freeze up when temperatures are exceptionally cold. There is no need to use the hot water for this pipe protection method, as this would just drain your water heater.