Tips to keep frozen pipes from bursting your American Dream
We have been in a deep freeze lately and there’s no end in sight – at least through the weekend. If your home is currently on the market under these conditions we imagine one of your concerns may be frozen pipes – especially if you no longer physically occupy the property. Because we want to keep your home listing process as worry-free as possible (and to ultimately get that offer), we have put together some preventative tips to keep your pipes from freezing:
- Take time to insulate your pipes: You can achieve this with snap-on foam insulation. When you apply, make sure it fits on tightly. Then, apply duct tape to the joints in the insulation.
- Keep faucets dripping ever so slightly in freezing temperatures. Drip both hot and cold water in kitchen and bathroom.
- Turn off sprinkler system: Additionally have compressed air blown through lines so any remaining water is drained.
- Keep cabinets open: Open cabinets doors under kitchen and bath sinks to let warm air in.
- Keep garage doors closed as much as possible during spells of freezing.
- Make sure basement doors and windows are completely closed and sealed tight with weather stripping.
- Shut off, disconnect and completely drain exterior and/or garden hoses.
Because burst pipes and resulting water damage can be extremely costly (up to $15,000 according to State Farm Insurance), these extra few steps can literally save you a bundle – and potentially save your home from having to come off the market while repairs are being made.