With the extended period of freezing weather gripping much of the country, Security Specialists want you to be aware of the growing risk of ruptured pipes due to freezing.
In a winter cold spell, water pipes may develop ice and subsequently form a blockage. If left untreated, this can lead to increased pressure, causing the pipe to rupture.
Water damage is one of the most common and costly home insurance claims. Water damage and freezing claims account for 24% of all home insurance claims and the average claim payout is $12,514, according to the most recent data from the Insurance Information Institute. In fact, burst or ruptured pipes from 2021 winter storms cost insurers an estimated $18 billion in home and business damages. If you’ve had frozen, burst pipes in the past, you know they are no fun to come home to or wake up to.
To start the new year on a positive note, Security Specialists urges you to follow these simple tips to help winterize your home to protect against freezing temperatures which could lead to burst pipes.
- Keep your thermostat at the same temperature day and night. Never let it fall below 55 degrees Fahrenheit when you leave your home.
- Make sure to close the indoor valves supplying outdoor water access points.
- Disconnect any hoses from the outside of your home and drain them.
- Cover your outside faucets with an insulating foam cover. Or wrap them in newspaper and duct tape, then cover them with a plastic bag.
- Drain water from pipes that are likely to freeze. This includes your swimming pool and sprinkler water supply lines.
- Keep the garage doors closed to protect water lines.
- Allow your faucets to drip cold water on the coldest days. The movement will make it harder for the water to freeze.
- Open kitchen cabinets. This allows the warm air to circulate around the pipes.
