How to Protect Your Home from Freezing Temperatures

Not Just Frozen Pipes are a Concern in SubZero Weather

When the temperatures outside drop, it's important to be aware of how that cold weather can affect the systems and components in your home. From plumbing to HVAC systems to electrical wiring, freezing temperatures can cause serious damage if they are not taken into consideration. Let's take a look at what you need to know about protecting your home from the cold this winter so that you can avoid costly repairs and damage.

 

Pipe Protection

One of the biggest worries when it comes to freezing temperatures is the potential for burst pipes. Pipes are particularly vulnerable during periods of extreme cold because when water freezes, it expands, and when pipes freeze, that expansion can cause them to burst.

To prevent this from happening in your home, make sure all exposed pipes are properly insulated with foam insulation or electrical heat tape. You should also check all interior pipes for any signs of wear or tear, and take appropriate steps to repair them if necessary.

When the temperature dips below freezing, you should open cabinets underneath sinks so that warm air can circulate around the pipes and keep them warm. Additionally, you should keep a few faucets running on nights when temperatures go below 32 degrees - even just a trickle is enough - so that water continues moving through the system and is less likely to freeze up.

 

HVAC Systems

Your HVAC system may be able to handle sub-freezing temperatures without any additional protection needed; however, if you live in an area where temperatures routinely dip below 32°F (0°C), then it’s best practice to cover up any outdoor units with a tarp or plastic sheeting. This will provide an extra layer of insulation for your unit and help keep it functioning optimally during extreme weather conditions.

If left unprotected during periods of extreme cold, your heating system could experience serious damage due to frozen coils or faulty wiring caused by ice buildup on exposed components. To prevent this from happening, make sure you have an up-to-date service contract with a local HVAC specialist who can inspect your system regularly and provide preventive maintenance as needed throughout the year.

Additionally, be sure to change out air filters at least once every three months so that they don’t become clogged with dirt and debris which could further reduce efficiency during colder months.

 

Electrical Systems

Cold weather can also have an effect on electrical systems both inside and outside of your home. Check both indoors and outdoors outlets for any signs of wear or tear. Make sure all outdoor outlets are covered with appropriate covers or outlet boxes for added protection against moisture and condensation build-up due to temperature differences between indoors and outdoors.

Frozen temperatures can also affect your electrical system if not properly maintained.  Replace any cracked insulation or frayed wiring immediately in order to avoid potential shocks or fires due to faulty wiring connections in high-humidity areas like bathrooms or kitchens where moisture is more likely to accumulate on exposed wires over time. Also take steps such as having GFCI outlets installed in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

Also be sure that all outdoor lighting fixtures are protected from snowfall by using plastic covers designed specifically for this purpose; these covers will help keep connections safe from water damage caused by melting snow accumulation on outdoor fixtures throughout winter months.

You should also have a professional inspect any exposed wiring in attics or crawl spaces for potential problems caused by freezing temperatures.

 

Conclusion: 

Cold weather doesn't just have an effect on our comfort levels; it can also cause serious damage to our homes if we're not prepared for it ahead of time. Taking proactive measures now will help protect your home against unwanted damages caused by freezing temperatures later on down the line.

Hire a qualified Plumbing, Heating and Cooling specialist who can provide regular service contracts to help your home be protected in both cold and warm weather.

Craig Plumbing, Heating and Cooling offers affordable Service Plans that will help you stay on top of protecting your home.  Find out more here.

Taking these simple steps now will ensure that you stay safe and comfortable throughout even the coldest winter days!