“To Freeze or Not to Freeze” Tips for Weather Guarding your Plumbing System This Winter

Patrick A. and Laura Feely, Owners, Shamrock Plumbing
 
As we approach the instability of the Texas winter months, Shamrock Plumbing Company and its staff get asked the age-old question, “What can I do to keep my pipes from freezing?” Unfortunately, in some cases, nothing.  The age, type of pipes, exposure, and a wide range of building standards all have varying effects on how sustained sub-freezing temperatures impact plumbing systems.  Simply letting your faucets drip may not necessarily be the answer, especially during a decade long drought.  This approach is environmentally irresponsible.
 
Start by ensuring all exposed water piping is properly insulated, especially on windward sides of your buildings.  Well housing and piping should be heated, if possible, with either heat tape or a small electric space heater.  Heat lamps, like you might use for livestock, are another option.  If you have an RPZ or double check attached to a domestic water system, they should both be insulated and protected with a wind cover.  Removing all hoses attached to exterior faucets is also recommended.  Using insulation covers is also extremely helpful in reducing exterior hose bib freezing.  Tankless water heaters, especially those not mounted in recessed boxes, should be wrapped with Thermacel insulation on all exposed pipes.  Leak detection systems can also be beneficial.  These systems either monitor water flow or detect leaks via sensors.  In most cases leak detection systems do not help prevent system loss due to freezing but can reduce damage caused from pipe failure. 

In short, like with most aspects of maintaining a property, some preventive maintenance goes a long way to reduce your exposure to freezing.  Hiring a licensed plumbing professional to perform a site evaluation is an option, but not always a necessity.  It makes sense to combine preemptive evaluations with a standard service call to reduce costs.

Should you be unfortunate and have your pipes freeze this winter season, don’t panic, or call 911.  Wait until temperatures rise and see if pipes thaw out.  If you do experience a break, contact a plumbing professional or well service contractor to properly repair the damaged pipes.  Shamrock Plumbing Company is a locally owned and operated plumbing professional business.  We’ve been serving the Texas Hill Country and San Antonio area for 25 years with over 60+ years combined experience.
 
Patrick A. Feely, RMP 36181