Surviving the Polar Vortex: How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Traverse City
Living in Traverse City, we are no strangers to cold weather. But when a “Polar Vortex” or an extreme cold snap hits Northern Michigan, we aren’t just dealing with a chilly morning—we are dealing with temperatures that can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing.
The most common (and damaging) victim of these sub-zero drops is your pipe system. Burst pipes can cause thousands of dollars in water damage in a matter of minutes. The good news? With a little preparation and vigilance, you can protect your home.
Here is your essential guide to keeping your water flowing when the temperatures plummet.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
It’s not just the temperature outside that matters; it’s the transfer of that cold to the pipes inside. When water freezes, it expands. If that expansion happens inside a rigid copper or PVC pipe, the pressure builds up until the pipe bursts.
In Traverse City, pipes located in unheated interior spaces like basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages are at the highest risk. However, even pipes running through exterior walls can freeze if the wind chill penetrates the insulation.
Immediate Steps to Prevent Freezing
When the forecast predicts a deep freeze, don’t wait until you see frost on the walls. Take these preventative measures immediately.
1. Let the Faucets Trickle
This is the oldest trick in the book, and it works. When the temperature dips extremely low, allow a faucet that is fed by exposed pipes to drip cold water.
- Why it works: You aren’t just trying to keep the water “moving.” Flowing water makes it much harder for ice crystals to form, and opening the faucet relieves pressure within the system. If a freeze does occur, that open faucet prevents pressure buildup, which is actually what causes the pipe to crack.
- The flow: It doesn’t need to be a geyser; a slow trickle (about the width of a pencil lead) is sufficient.
2. Open Cabinet Doors
Many plumbing lines, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, are located behind closed cabinet doors. These cabinets act as insulation, keeping the cool air in and the warm air out.
- The Fix: Open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks. This allows the warmer air from your home to circulate around the plumbing.
- Safety Note: If you have small children or pets, be sure to move any harmful cleaners or chemicals out of reach while the doors are open.
3. Keep the Thermostat Consistent
You might be used to lowering the heat at night or when you leave for work to save money on energy bills. During a Polar Vortex, this is a risk you shouldn’t take.
- The Strategy: Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By keeping the heat higher, you protect the pipes in your walls.
- Going Away? If you plan to leave Traverse City during the winter, never set the thermostat lower than 55° F.
4. Seal the Drafts
Check around your home for cold drafts, particularly near plumbing. Cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows, or spaces where pipes enter the home can let in freezing air that targets your plumbing. A little caulk or spray foam insulation can go a long way.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you turn on a faucet and only a few drops come out, suspect a frozen pipe.
- Keep the Faucet Open: As you treat the frozen pipe and the ice begins to melt, water will need to flow through to help melt the rest of the ice.
- Apply Heat Gently: Use an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or a portable space heater (kept at a safe distance). NEVER use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
- Know Your Main Shut-Off: If a pipe has already burst, you need to stop the water immediately. Ensure every member of your household knows where the main water shut-off valve is located.
We Are Here When You Need Us Most
Ideally, these tips will keep your home dry and warm through the worst of the Michigan winter. However, sometimes the weather wins. If you suspect a frozen pipe that you cannot access, or if you are dealing with a burst pipe emergency, do not hesitate.
Grant Mechanical offers professional plumbing services to help you navigate these winter emergencies. We can safely thaw pipes and repair bursts to get your water running again.
Need help fast? Contact Grant Mechanical for Emergency Plumbing Services in Traverse City. Call us today or visit our contact page to schedule an inspection. Stay warm, stay safe!
