While we cross our fingers that the extreme wintry days are behind us, the nights are still dropping below freezing, leading many homeowners to face the annual struggle of frozen and burst pipes.

While McCoy’s is happy to provide all plumbing services from leaky faucets to pipe leaks, our number one goal is keeping you safe and, more importantly, dry. We’ll do everything we can to help after pipes freeze and burst, but there are a few easy tips to keep your pipes warm and water flowing (where it’s supposed to) in five minutes or less.

Run water all night

Hot, cold, slow drip or heavy stream, running water when temperatures are below freezing can keep your pipes from getting too cold.

But won’t my water bill go up?

A light drip from the faucet will be almost undetectable on your water bill and much less costly than repairs for frozen pipes.

Regulate the temperature

We completely understand the need to save money, but your home’s temperature shouldn’t be the place to pinch pennies. Keeping your thermostat consistent throughout the day and night will help the pipes regulate their temperature and stay warm.

Even when I’m not at home?

While many people allow the temperature to drop when they’re sleeping or when they’re at work, pipes tend to be made of materials that do not heat as quickly or retain heat as much as you may expect.

Add insulation

You can add insulation around your pipes or throughout your home, in the appropriate places, to retain more heat. This will keep heat from escaping the pipes, reducing the likelihood your pipes will freeze.

Open cabinet doors

Anywhere there are pipes that can be easily exposed, expose them! Opening cabinets under the sinks or doors to hidden closets with pipes allows the heat in your home to reach the pipes. This ensures your entire home – even the plumbing – is getting enough heat.

While you can do all of the above and more, sometimes pipes freeze and burst. If this happens to you, shut off the water and call McCoy’s. One of our plumbers will be able to thaw or repair your pipes and get you back to a free-flowing life.