How To Prevent Frozen Pipes During Michigan’s Freezing Winters
family-owned, serving Brighton, MI and surrounding areas for over 42 years
Michigan winters are no joke. When temperatures plummet, the water inside your pipes can freeze, expand, and create intense pressure – leading to burst pipes and costly water damage. With proper precautions, you can protect your home’s plumbing system from freezing temperatures and avoid unnecessary repairs.
At Dion’s Complete, we’re here to help Michigan homeowners safeguard their plumbing during the harsh winter months. Follow this guide to prevent frozen pipes and keep your home safe.
Why Michigan Homes Are More Vulnerable to Frozen Pipes
The Great Lakes State experiences some of the most severe temperature fluctuations in the country. These conditions put extra stress on plumbing systems, especially those in areas exposed to freezing air.
Many Michigan homes have pipes running through unheated spaces such as crawl spaces, exterior walls, basements, and attics. Without proper insulation and maintenance, these vulnerable areas can quickly become problem spots during the winter.
Top Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes
Protecting your pipes starts with understanding your home’s vulnerabilities and taking proactive steps.
Here’s what you can do:
- Use high-quality pipe insulation to cover plumbing in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
- Look for gaps near pipe entries and seal them with caulk or expanding foam to block cold drafts.
- Disconnect hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and cover them with insulated caps.
- If water lines run through your garage, keep the doors closed to trap heat.
- Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks during extreme cold.
Keep Water Flowing To Avoid Freezing
Water freezes more slowly when it’s moving. During frigid temperatures, let your faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing through the pipes. This simple trick can prevent freezing and reduce the risk of burst pipes.
Additionally, maintain your thermostat at no lower than 55 degrees, even when you’re not home. Consistent indoor temperatures help protect your plumbing system during cold snaps.
Enhance Protection With Pipe Wrapping
Wrapping pipes in insulation is one of the most effective ways to prevent freezing. Choose materials rated for Michigan’s climate, and ensure a snug fit around all exposed plumbing.
For extra protection in high-risk areas, consider using heating cables or heat tape. These provide additional warmth and are especially useful for pipes in crawl spaces or basements. Be sure to use products labeled safe for plumbing and inspect them regularly to ensure proper operation.
Warning Signs of Frozen Pipes
Catching pipe problems early can save you from major damage. Be on the lookout for these signs that your pipes might be freezing:
- Reduced or no water flow from faucets
- Unusual gurgling sounds from drains or fixtures
- Frost forming on exposed piping
- Odors coming from drains
- Sudden changes in water temperature
If you notice any of these signs, contact a professional plumber immediately to address the issue before it worsens.
Winter Precautions for Extended Trips
Planning to leave your home for an extended period during the winter? Take extra precautions to protect your pipes while you’re away:
- Turn off the main water supply.
- Use a thermostat with remote monitoring.
- Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees before leaving.
Trust Dion’s Complete for Professional Pipe Protection
Michigan winters are tough, but with the right steps, you can prevent frozen pipes and keep your home safe.
Call Dion’s Complete at (734) 506-8979 for expert advice, preventative services, or immediate solutions tailored to Michigan’s climate.
Dion’s Complete
Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
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