Brrr, It’s Cold Out Here!

Tips to Protect Your Pipes This Winter

As the temperature drops miserably here in Massachusetts, it’s important to take necessary steps to prevent costly damage caused by frozen pipes. At Jennifer Cedor Law & Realty, we care about protecting your home and your investments.

Here are some quick tips to help keep your pipes safe this brutal winter:

1. Keep the Heat On: Even if you’re away, make sure your thermostat is set to at least 55°F. This keeps water in your pipes from freezing. If you are home, keep the heat on at least 68°.

2. Let Faucets Drip: I know this will trigger the days when our parents yelled at us to turn off the faucet, but let it drip just a bit. A slow drip from your faucets helps relieve pressure in your pipes and prevents freezing.

3. Open Cabinet Doors: Open the cabinets under sinks, especially on exterior walls, to allow warm air to circulate around your pipes.

4. Insulate Pipes: Use pipe insulation or heat tape to cover exposed pipes in your basements, attics, and those crawl spaces.

5. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect your home for drafts near the pipes and seal any gaps. You can use caulk or insulation to seal these gaps.

6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: It’s also important to remove those hoses that some of us leave connected year round. Shut off the water spigots to prevent freezing.

7. Know Your Water Shut-Off Valve: In case of a burst pipe, get familiar with where to turn off your water. This will help minimize damage.

8. Plan Ahead: If you’re leaving for a long time, ask someone you trust to check your home from time to time. Alternatively, shut off your water and drain all the pipes before you leave.

Pro Tip: If your pipes do freeze, use a hairdryer or space heater to thaw them—do not use open flame, such as a lighter to thaw the pipes!

Stay safe, warm, and cozy this winter! If you have any questions about protecting your property or need assistance managing your home, feel free to contact Jennifer Cedor Law & Realty or Cedor Realty Group today.

P.s. did you forget how cold it gets here? We sure did!

We look forward to Securing your Legacy and helping you Build your Tomorrow.