Owning an older home comes with unique benefits, including architectural charm and distinctive design features. However, many older homes in Sacramento also share a common challenge: limited or outdated insulation. Poor insulation can lead to higher energy bills and increases the risk of frozen pipes during cold weather. When pipes freeze, they can burst and cause extensive water damage. The following tips can help homeowners protect plumbing systems and prevent frozen pipes during winter.
Leave the Heat On
If heating costs are high, it can be tempting to lower the thermostat or turn the heat off when leaving home. Doing so during winter can put your plumbing at serious risk. If indoor temperatures drop too low, pipes may freeze and burst. To reduce this risk, keep your home heated at all times during winter and maintain a thermostat setting of at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are away. Consistent indoor warmth helps protect pipes from freezing.
Winterize Your Outdoor Spigots
Outdoor spigots are one of the most common sources of frozen pipes because they are directly exposed to cold air. Before winter arrives, it is important to winterize them properly. Start by locating the indoor shutoff valve for each outdoor faucet and turning it off. Then open the exterior faucet to drain any remaining water.
Once the line is fully drained, install an insulated foam faucet cover. These covers are inexpensive and widely available at hardware stores. When secured properly against the exterior wall, they help reduce heat loss and protect the faucet from freezing temperatures.
Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
Pipes that run through unheated areas such as basements, crawlspaces, or attics are especially vulnerable to freezing. Adding insulation is one of the most effective ways to protect them. Foam pipe insulation is easy to install and fits over exposed pipes. Most products include adhesive seams that seal the insulation in place, helping retain heat and reduce freezing risk.
Consider Heat Tape
Some pipes may be located in areas that are difficult to insulate fully. In these cases, heat tape can provide additional protection. Heat tape is an electric heating element that wraps around pipes and supplies gentle warmth when temperatures drop.
Most modern heat tape systems include built-in thermostats that activate only when necessary. When installed correctly, heat tape can prevent ice formation and help protect sections of plumbing that are particularly vulnerable during cold snaps.
Open Under-Sink Cabinets
Under-sink cabinets often stay colder than the rest of the home, especially on exterior walls. Cold water pipes inside these cabinets can draw heat from the surrounding air, creating a much colder environment than the thermostat reading suggests.
When outdoor temperatures fall below freezing, opening under-sink cabinet doors allows warm indoor air to circulate around the pipes. This simple step can significantly reduce the likelihood of freezing.
Let a Faucet Drip
Most winters in Sacramento are mild, but occasional cold snaps can bring unusually low temperatures. During extreme cold, additional precautions may be necessary.
Allowing a faucet to drip slightly can help prevent frozen pipes. Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water, and the flow helps relieve pressure inside the plumbing system. If freezing does occur, this pressure relief can reduce the risk of pipes bursting.
What to Do if a Pipe Freezes
If you suspect a pipe has frozen, act quickly to reduce damage. Signs include frost on pipes or reduced water flow from faucets. Leave the affected faucet open and apply gentle heat to the frozen section.
You can use a space heater placed several feet away, a heating pad set to medium heat, or warm towels wrapped around the pipe. Avoid open flames or high heat, as these can damage pipes and increase fire risk. Continue warming the pipe until water pressure returns to normal.
Your Trusted Local Plumbing Experts
Since 2004, Huft Home Services has provided expert plumbing services to homeowners throughout Sacramento. We help protect older homes from winter plumbing issues and offer leak detection services if frozen pipes cause damage.
Our experienced plumbers deliver reliable workmanship and honest recommendations. We also offer financing options on approved credit and maintain Better Business Bureau accreditation with an A+ rating. If you need help preventing or repairing frozen pipes in your older Sacramento home, contact Huft Home Services today.
