☰
2023-01-31
By: Advocate Brokerage
When the weather is freezing cold one minute and then warmer than normal the next, the pipes in your home face the very real danger of freezing.
The #1 homeowner claim we see is property damage that has been created by a burst pipe. The losses can be devastating. Even a crack as small as 1/8” can create a sizable amount of damage. Water flows where it wants to go and ruins most of the items in its wake, causing structural and property damage.
1. Keep your heat turned to at least 62 degrees. Even when you are away from home or sleeping.
2. Open bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors so that the warmer air from the room can circulate through them. Especially if you have any sinks located on an exterior wall.
3. If you are not going to be in the home for any length of time, as a last resort turn on a faucet on the home’s top floor and leave the water dripping. Still water freezes faster than running water and this will keep the water flowing.
4. Keep your garage door closed. Many water supply lines are located inside the garage so it is important to do all you can to keep the heat inside.
5. Insulate your pipes. Pay attention to pipes located in unheated interior spaces such as attics, basements, and garages.
6. Know where the main water shutoff valve is located and how to turn it off. This will be important if a pipe does burst. Turning off the water will help to reduce the damage.
7. Most importantly installing a water flow alarm can save your house from total devastation. The smart technology of a water flow alarm can prevent 93% of all water damage.
If you are considering the installation of a water flow alarm, there are a few companies we recommend:
If you have questions, or we can help you in any way, feel free to give us a call at 914-723-7100.
