5 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter in Anchorage, Alaska

The crisp air, the twinkling lights, the cozy evenings by the fireplace – winter in Anchorage has its own unique charm. But amidst the festivities lurks a hidden threat: frozen pipes. When the mercury dips below freezing, exposed or uninsulated pipes can freeze, leading to a plumbing nightmare – burst pipes that can cause extensive water damage and costly repairs.

Here at KYCO Inc., we understand the importance of keeping your pipes safe during the Alaskan winter. We’ve put together 5 essential tips to help you prevent frozen pipes and ensure a stress-free winter season.

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes:

The first line of defense against frozen pipes is proper insulation. Inspect your basement, crawl space, attic, and any exterior walls where pipes are exposed. Here’s what you need to do:

• Identify Exposed Pipes: Look for pipes running along the walls, under the sink, or in unheated areas.
• Choose the Right Insulation: Use foam pipe insulation sleeves with a thickness of at least ½ inch. Fiberglass insulation is another option, but it’s less effective.
• Wrap the Pipes Securely: Wrap the insulation sleeves tightly around the pipes, ensuring complete coverage. Secure the ends with duct tape or zip ties to prevent them from slipping off.
• Focus on Critical Areas: Pay extra attention to pipes near exterior walls, corners, crawl spaces, and near windows.
• Consider Heat Tape: In cases where insulation alone might not be sufficient, use heat tape specifically designed for pipes. This provides an extra layer of protection during very cold spells. Remember, heat tape should always be used in conjunction with insulation, never on its own.

2. Keep the Heat On (Even When You’re Away):

Maintaining a constant, warm temperature inside your home is crucial for preventing frozen pipes. Here are some pointers:

• Set a Minimum Thermostat Temperature: Don’t let your home get too cold, even when you’re away. Set your thermostat to a minimum temperature of 55°F (12°C). This ensures a minimal amount of heat is circulating to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Consider a Programmable Thermostat: For added convenience, invest in a programmable thermostat. You can set it to automatically adjust the temperature throughout the day and night, maintaining a comfortable level when you’re at home and a minimal one when you’re away or asleep.
• Focus on Vulnerable Areas: Pay attention to unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and garages where pipes might be present. Consider placing a small space heater in these areas to provide additional warmth. However, make sure the heater is properly positioned and isn’t a fire hazard.

3. Seal Up Air Leaks:

Cold air seeping through cracks and gaps can significantly impact the interior temperature. Here’s what you can do:

• Identify Leaks: Check around windows, doors, electrical outlets, and plumbing fixtures for any noticeable air leaks.
• Seal the Leaks: Use caulk or weather stripping to seal these leaks and prevent cold air from entering your home.
• Focus on Basements and Crawl Spaces: Pay close attention to air leaks around basement foundation walls and crawl space entry points. These areas are particularly susceptible to cold drafts.

4. Let the Faucets Drip:

A slight drip from your faucets might seem like a waste of water, but during freezing temperatures, it can actually prevent frozen pipes. Here’s what you need to know:

• The Science Behind It: A slow, steady drip keeps the water moving within the pipe, making it less likely to freeze completely.
• Choose the Right Faucet: Drip a faucet that is served by a pipe exposed to the coldest temperatures.
• Focus on Exterior Walls: Prioritize faucets on exterior walls where pipes are most susceptible to freezing.
• Minimize Waste: A slow drip is sufficient. A continuous stream of water can lead to unnecessary water waste.
• Consider the Cost: The cost of a few extra gallons of water is significantly lower compared to the potential damage caused by burst pipes.

5. Disconnect and Drain Garden Hoses:

Don’t forget about your exterior hose bibs! Here’s why:

• Winterize Hose Bibs: Shut off the water supply to your hose bibs before the first freeze. Locate the shut-off valve inside your house, typically near the foundation or basement.
• Drain the Hoses: Completely drain any remaining water from your garden hoses. Detach them from the hose bib and store them indoors for the winter.
• Cover the Hose Bibs: Use insulated hose bib covers to provide additional protection from the elements.

Categorised in: Plumbing Tips

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