JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As freezing temperatures approach, protecting your home from the cold becomes a top priority.
Local professional Devin McEwen, with Mow Management, shared essential tips to help homeowners prevent damage during cold weather.
Open cabinets to keep pipes warm
One of the first steps McEwen suggests is to open the cabinets under sinks in the kitchen and bathrooms.
“The heat inside your home can move into these spaces and help keep the pipes warm,” McEwen explained. Since pipes under sinks are typically not insulated, keeping cabinet doors open allows warm air to circulate and prevent freezing.
When asked if cabinets should stay open overnight, McEwen confirmed, “Yes, leave them open.”
Let faucets drip
Another key tip is letting faucets drip, both indoors and outdoors.
“Moving water is not as easy to freeze as stagnant water,” McEwen said.
By keeping a small, continuous flow of water, you reduce the risk of pipes freezing completely.
Locate and protect your main shutoff valve
McEwen also emphasized the importance of knowing where your home’s main water shutoff valve is located.
“Look for your main intake pipe, and you’ll find the valve,” he said. “Be careful when turning it, and check for proper insulation around the pipe. You can add insulating tape or foam for extra protection.”
Insulate exposed pipes
Using insulating foam around exposed pipes is another inexpensive yet effective way to safeguard your home.
“It kind of looks like a pool noodle and costs about $2 for six feet,” McEwen explained.
Adding this foam insulation can prevent pipes from freezing and bursting in extremely cold temperatures.
Protect outdoor water spigots
Outdoor water spigots also need attention. McEwen recommends allowing these to drip continuously and checking for insulation around them.
If a pipe does freeze, McEwen advised starting the thawing process at the faucet.
“Use a wet towel to thaw the area, then work your way down the pipe to the frozen section,” he said.
Pool care during freezing temperatures
For homeowners with pools, McEwen offered additional advice.
“Cover the pool pump and filtering system with an insulated cover to keep them warm,” he said.
Maintaining the appropriate water fill level is also critical.
“If ice forms on the pool’s surface, gently break it up to prevent damage to the pool walls or tiles. Ice can expand and crack tiles or puncture liners,” McEwen warned.
Using a pool cover can also help retain heat, reduce debris, and minimize water evaporation.
Washer and dryer tips for unheated spaces
Finally, McEwen addressed protecting washers and dryers located in unheated spaces like garages or sheds.
“If your washer and dryer are outside, disconnect the hot and cold water hoses, drain them, and let the faucets drip continuously,” he explained.
For appliances located indoors, the home’s heat should provide adequate protection.
Stay proactive in freezing temperatures
Taking these precautions can save homeowners from costly repairs and water damage caused by freezing temperatures.
From insulating pipes to letting faucets drip, these simple steps can make a significant difference in protecting your home during the cold.
Be sure to keep an eye on the weather on-air, online and on News4JAX.com.