How do I prepare my pipes for winter?

Audrey
by Audrey

Will my pipes burst of i don't turn my furnace on all winter? Can't afford to replace it now

  8 answers
  • Kelli L. Milligan Kelli L. Milligan on Nov 05, 2018

    Only if they don't freeze. How will you stay warm?

  • Depending on where you live, you do run that risk. Audrey. Using pipe insulation and dripping faucets may help, but if it gets really cold, I don't know if that's enough.

    • Audrey Audrey on Nov 05, 2018

      The pipes are in the basement..we plan to use fireplace in basement on the main level we have a electric fireplace and Will use a space heater in kitchen on the second level we have a wood burning fireplace

  • Gk Gk on Nov 05, 2018

    If the temperature where your pipes are gets below 32 degrees then yes your pipes will freeze and possibly burst. You could use some electric heat tape on your pipes if you are worried about them freezing. At the very least you could use some pipe insulation. Is there a way to have another heat source in this area?

  • Zard Pocleeb Zard Pocleeb on Nov 05, 2018

    You don’t say where your pipes are (crawl space, etc.) but the easiest thing to do that costs nothing is to leave a faucet or two trickling during low temperatures. I do this and i’ve never had a problem.

  • Oliva Oliva on Nov 05, 2018

    Depends on your location. Freezing weather and temps below 40/50 degrees fahrenheit, inside the structure are an invitation to burst pipes, particularly if your water lines are on exterior wall areas. Can you turn the furnace on to a lower temp? How are you heating? Are your attic, walls, basement and water pipes insulated? Do you have a tree line close to your structure to help buffer winter winds?

  • William William on Nov 05, 2018

    If temps get close to freezing pipes can freeze and burst. Wrapping the pipes with pipe insulation can help. Yes, how will you keep warm? Does the furnace need replacing or can it be repaired? You can us electric heaters.

  • William William on Nov 05, 2018

    With the fireplaces and space heater you should be fine. I remember working with my dad rehabbing homes 50+ years ago. Gas and electric was shut off. He used two wood burning stoves to keep them warm and above freezing in the winter.

  • Kelli L. Milligan Kelli L. Milligan on Nov 05, 2018

    Sounds like you've got it covered. Hope it all works out and you stay toasty.