Avoid Costly Damage: Tips to Prevent Freezing Pipes This Winter

Wisconsin winters can be brutal, and one of the most common (and costly) problems homeowners face is frozen pipes. When pipes freeze, they can burst, causing significant water damage and expensive repairs. At Preferred Insurance Agency in La Crosse, WI, we want to help you protect your home from this preventable disaster. Here are some essential tips to keep your pipes safe this winter:

1. Insulate Your Pipes

Proper insulation is key to preventing frozen pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages.

• Use foam pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape to wrap pipes in cold-prone areas.
• Pay special attention to exposed pipes or those near exterior walls.

2. Keep Your Home Warm

Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature is crucial:

• Set your thermostat to at least 55°F, even if you’re away from home.
• Keep interior doors open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

3. Let Faucets Drip

Allowing faucets to drip slightly during extreme cold can prevent pressure from building up in the pipes:

• Focus on faucets connected to pipes that run through unheated spaces.
• Even a small, steady stream of water can make a big difference.

4. Seal Cracks and Gaps

Cold air can seep into your home through cracks and gaps, increasing the risk of frozen pipes:

• Seal any gaps around windows, doors, or where pipes enter your home with caulk or insulation.
• Check for drafts in basements, crawl spaces, and under sinks.

5. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Leaving hoses connected to outdoor faucets can cause water to freeze and expand:

• Disconnect and store all garden hoses.
• Shut off water supply to outdoor spigots and drain any remaining water.

6. Know Where Your Main Shut-Off Valve Is

In case a pipe does freeze and burst, knowing how to quickly turn off your water supply can save you from extensive damage:

• Locate your main water shut-off valve and ensure it’s accessible.
• Test it periodically to make sure it’s functioning properly.

7. Monitor Vulnerable Areas

Regularly check on areas where pipes are most at risk:

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate.
• Use a space heater safely to warm particularly cold spots.

8. Consider Smart Technology

Investing in smart home technology can give you extra peace of mind:

• Install water leak detectors that send alerts to your phone if a leak is detected.
• Use smart thermostats to maintain consistent temperatures, even when you’re away.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze

Despite your best efforts, pipes can still freeze. Here’s what to do:

• Turn on the faucet to allow water to flow through as the pipe thaws.
• Apply gentle heat using a hairdryer, heating pad, or portable space heater.
• Never use an open flame to thaw pipes.
• Call a professional plumber if you can’t locate or safely thaw the frozen pipe.

Protect Your Home with Preferred Insurance

Even with preventative measures, accidents can happen. That’s why it’s essential to have a homeowners insurance policy that covers water damage from burst pipes. At Preferred Insurance Agency, we’re here to ensure you have the right coverage to protect your home and your peace of mind.

Contact us today to review your policy or get a quote. Call 608-881-6566 or visit wwwpreferredlax.com  Let’s keep your home safe and warm this winter!