Protecting Your Home From Freezing Pipes in the Winter

Winter is almost here—is your Portland home ready for it?

One of the most common and potentially damaging problems Oregon homeowners face during our chilly winters is the risk of freezing pipes. Frozen pipes can burst, leading to significant water damage and costly repairs.

Sun Glow, Inc., known for its top-quality home services, emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to protect your home from the harsh realities of winter. Let us help protect your home and plumbing equipment.

Why Pipe Freezing Is a Concern

When water freezes, it expands. If there is enough pressure on the pipes, they could burst. 

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a burst pipe can release more than 250 gallons of water per day, causing extensive water damage, high repair costs, and potential mold growth.

Protect your home, plumbing pipes, and, most importantly, your health by turning to Sun Glow, Inc. We can properly winterize your home!

Tips for Protecting Your Home from Frozen Pipes

Our professionals recommend the following to prep your home’s plumbing equipment for the winter and reduce the risk of any pipes freezing up:

• Insulate Your Pipes: One of the most effective ways to prevent pipes from freezing is to insulate them. Pay special attention to pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages. Pipe insulation is a cost-effective solution that can save you from expensive repairs. You can purchase insulation tape for your pipes at the local hardware store and apply it to your pipes for protection—or our experts can help do it for you!
  
• Turn on the Heat: Even if you plan to be away from home, keep your heating on at a lower setting. You should never turn off your heat completely in the winter. Maintaining a consistent temperature inside your home can prevent the pipes from reaching freezing points.
  
• Seal Any Leaks: Check around your home for any leaks that allow cold air inside, especially where pipes run through walls or floors. Sealing these leaks with caulk or insulation can make a big difference.
  
• Let Your Faucets Drip: Allowing a slight drip from faucets connected to exposed pipes can relieve pressure in the plumbing system and prevent the pipes from bursting, even if they freeze.
  
• Open the Cabinet Doors: In extremely cold weather, keep cabinet doors open. This will allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, which is especially important if your sinks are on an exterior wall.
  
• Drain Outdoor Faucets and Any Irrigation Systems: Before the first freeze, drain and disconnect all garden hoses. Shut off and drain any outdoor faucets and irrigation systems to prevent any remaining water from freezing and expanding. Be sure you know exactly where to turn off the main water supply in the event of a burst pipe.
  

Rely on Sun Glow for Winter Home Protection

At Sun Glow, Inc., our commitment goes beyond providing exceptional service. We are committed to educating our customers on how to maintain a safe and efficient home.

As winter sets in, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to protect your pipes from freezing.

Remember, the cost of preventing frozen pipes is minimal compared to the potential damage and expense of a burst pipe. If you need assistance winterizing your home or have concerns about your plumbing as the colder months approach, our team of experts is here to help.

Leave All Your Plumbing Needs to Our Experts

Turn to Sun Glow, Inc., to prepare your Portland, OR, home for the winter and reduce the risk of a major plumbing problem. Our experts can handle all of your plumbing needs and concerns. Call 971-358-1580 or request service online.