How to Prevent Water Damage at Home This Winter

Protecting your home from water damage is paramount, especially when temperatures dip below freezing. From burst pipes and broken washing machines to leaky roofs, even minor incidents can lead to extensive and costly repairs. Be vigilant and take preventative measures to guard your home. If something does happen, immediate action is key. Any amount of excess water can lead to structural damage and severe damage.

No one likes to think about navigating major water damage, so do what you can to safeguard your home during the cold winter months. Here are seven ideas:

Insulate Pipes

Prevent frozen pipes. Wrap exposed water pipes in insulation. Snap-on pipe insulation is affordable and easy to use. Applying it will protect them from freezing temperatures. Pay special attention to pipes in exterior walls and unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. This insulation helps prevent pipes from bursting, a common cause of winter water damage.

Erie Insurance offers four crucial tips to help mitigate the risk:

• Maintain a minimum thermostat setting of 55 degrees.

• Leave cabinets, drawers, and crawl spaces open to promote air circulation.

• Consider installing low-temperature alarms to notify you when temperatures approach freezing.

• Allow faucets to drip cold water, which can aid in preventing freezing.

Related: How to Prevent Ice Dam Formation on Your Roof

Identify Plumbing Leaks

Inspect your home for signs of water damage, especially where pipes run. Existing damage might be the telltale sign of an unnoticed water leak. If you fix minor leaks now, you'll be in better shape when the temperatures drop.

Another pro tip: Monitor year-round for changes in your water bills. If it spikes one month, it may be a sign of leaks in your home.

Check for Air Gaps

Seal any gaps in walls, window casings, and doors to prevent cold air and water from entering. Add storm windows as an extra line of defense.

Related: How to Winterize Your Garden Hose

Disconnect and Drain Garden Hoses

Before winter sets in, disconnect hoses from faucets and drain them of any residual water. Store them in a sheltered area. Additionally, consider installing frost-free hose bibs to prevent outdoor faucets from freezing.

Keep Heating Systems Maintained

Regularly service your heating systems, including furnaces and water heaters. Proper maintenance ensures they operate efficiently, reducing the risk of malfunctions that could lead to water damage. Replace filters, check for leaks, and put additional insulation around the water heater and supply hoses if it's in an unheated space. Additionally, schedule a fireplace inspection. They'll check for damaged chimney mortar. Loose mortar can also make your home susceptible to water damage.

Inspect Your Sump Pump

Prepare your sump pump for the risk of basement flooding by testing its operation. You can avoid potential water damage by checking the discharge line for obstructions, inspecting the check valve, and ensuring that it has a reliable power supply. Regular maintenance safeguards against potential issues and will add peace of mind that it'll be a strong defense against water damage.

Related: Sump Pump Maintenance is Really Important

Monitor and Regulate Indoor Humidity

Maintain indoor humidity levels to prevent excess moisture that can lead to issues like condensation and mold growth. Use a dehumidifier if necessary, and ensure proper ventilation in areas prone to dampness, such as basements and bathrooms.

Install Water Sensors

Water sensors, also known as water alarms, leak detectors, or spot detectors, play a vital role in preventing unexpected water damage. These water leak detection devices provide early warnings by detecting and raising awareness for undetected leaks. Investing in these smart technologies is a proactive measure to safeguard your home from potential water-related disasters.

FAQ

What are the common causes of water damage?

• Damaged appliances. From ice makers to dishwashers to washing machines, all can break and cause extensive water damage.

• Air conditioner units

• Leaky faucets

• Clogged drain pipes

• Clogged gutters. Gutter guards do help.

What should you do if you have a pipe burst?

Experiencing a burst pipe can be a stressful situation, but taking prompt action is crucial to stop the water flow and minimize damage. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do if you have a pipe burst:

1. Turn off the main water supply. Locate your home's main water shut-off valve and turn it off. This will stop the flow of water and prevent further damage.
   Take photos and videos of any damage. It will help if you need to file a claim against your insurance policy.

2. Drain faucets. Open all faucets in your home to drain the remaining water in the plumbing system. This helps reduce pressure and minimize damage.

3. Locate the burst pipe. Identify the location and take swift action to clean up as much as you can. Towels or buckets can be used to collect water and prevent it from spreading. Remove as much water as you can with a wet-dry vacuum or a mop. Consider using powerful utility fans and dehumidifiers to expedite the drying process.

4. Call your insurance company to file a claim. They'll help connect you to a plumber or mold mitigation specialist who has the expertise to address the issue and ensure proper repairs.

Remember, fast action is key to minimizing damage when dealing with a burst pipe. If you're unsure or the situation is beyond your control, don't hesitate to call a local plumber for professional help.

Related: Are You Prepared for an Early and Severe Winter?

Can a small water leak cause mold?

Yes, a one-time, small water leak can lead to mold growth if the affected area remains damp for an extended period. Mold spores thrive in moist environments, and even a brief water intrusion can lead to musty smells or evolve into a dangerous black mold. Promptly addressing and thoroughly drying the affected area is crucial to preventing mold growth.