Pipes in walls, as well as pipes in baseboard heating systems are susceptible to freezing. Frozen pipes can crack, often leading to serious water damage upon thawing.
Change Furnace Filters Regularly
It wouldn’t be an AMH blog post without a gentle reminder to check furnace filters monthly, and change at minimum every 90 days. Not only do clogged furnace filters cause your heating system to work harder, they can potentially shut down the system. Furnace filters exist both for your health and the health of your heating system. Filters are available for free at the U-Fix-It for a 1 for 1 exchange.
Keep Windows Closed
Often times an open window is all it takes to freeze a pipe, especially when temperatures fall well below the freezing mark. Cold air sinks to the ground, and baseboard heating units are often located near or under windows, making the thin copper pipes that run through them highly susceptible to freezing.
Ensure Digital Thermostats are Operational
Digital thermostats use AA batteries. If the batteries run out of juice, the thermostat will not work.
Open Cabinet Doors
Pipes that run through cabinets that line exterior walls are prone to freezing, as they do not always get the heat they need from the heating system. Opening these cabinet doors allows for better circulation of warm air.
Remove Hoses from Exterior Faucets (and apply a hose bib cover)
Keeping exterior faucets from freezing is a common challenge during Alaskan winters. By removing hoses and applying insulating faucet covers (available at the U-Fix-It), you can mitigate the chance of freezing.
Keep the Heat On!
Turning off the heat completely during sub-freezing temperatures will save you a few bucks on your heating bill. It will also grant every pipe in the home the opportunity to freeze, causing expensive water damage. If you are going on vacation, we recommend setting the thermostat to 68 degrees.
Fill out a Notice of Absence
Speaking of vacation, if you plan on being gone from your home for 5 or more days, you must fill out a notice of absence form, and designate a caretaker/ POC for your home. This person should aim to check your home daily to ensure the heating system is operating properly.
