Do you run both hot and cold water to keep pipes from freezing?

Keeping your pipes from freezing during cold weather is essential to prevent costly repairs and water damage. One common misconception is that running both hot and cold water will keep the pipes from freezing. However, this is not true.

Why running both hot and cold water does not prevent freezing:

When you run both hot and cold water, the hot water will mix with the cold water and create a lukewarm temperature. This lukewarm water will not be hot enough to prevent the pipes from freezing, and it will actually cool the cold water down, making it more likely to freeze.

How to prevent pipes from freezing:

The best way to prevent pipes from freezing is to keep them warm. This can be done by:

  • Insulating the pipes with foam insulation or heat tape
  • Opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes
  • Keeping the thermostat set to a minimum of 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are away from home
  • If possible, covering exposed pipes with towels or blankets

If your pipes do freeze:

If your pipes do freeze, do not try to thaw them out with a torch or other open flame. This could cause the pipes to burst. Instead, call a plumber or try to thaw the pipes out with warm water.

FAQs:

  1. What is the best way to keep pipes from freezing? Insulating the pipes with foam insulation or heat tape.
  2. Can running both hot and cold water damage the pipes? No, but it will not prevent them from freezing either.
  3. What should I do if my pipes freeze? Call a plumber or try to thaw the pipes out with warm water.
  4. Is it okay to use a torch to thaw out frozen pipes? No, this could cause the pipes to burst.
  5. What is the minimum temperature that I should keep my thermostat set to in the winter? 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Hot Sale Products:

  • AquaGuard Heat Tape Kit
  • Frost King Foam Pipe Insulation
  • Utilitech Pipe Wrap Insulation
  • Therma-Wrap Heat Tape
  • HeatTrak Pipe Heating Cable

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