Your space crawl should be your main focus when the freezing weather hits. Keeping your crawlspace above freezing temperatures can prevent your water pipes from freezing and bursting. Plumbing problems from frozen pipes can cost you thousands of dollars and the inconvenience of running out of water until they are fixed.

Here are five secrets to keeping your basement above freezing temperatures and your pipes intact during the cold winter months:

1. Prepare for cold weather – Benjamin Franklin once said that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is as true today as it was when Franklin made the quote. Take the time to inspect your crawlspace and look for leaks in your pipes. If you see any leaks, fix them before they cause bigger problems. Check the doors to your crawl space to make sure they are working properly for maximum ventilation. Replace them if necessary. A narrow space with high humidity and humidity can lead to plumbing and structural problems. A small investment for as little as $99 can potentially save you thousands of dollars.
2. open your cabinets – Believe it or not, your bathroom and kitchen cabinets with plumbing on the exterior walls of your home can help or hinder you with the process of protecting your pipes during cold spells. Take the time to open your cabinet doors and let the warmth of your home help keep your pipes warm. Every little bit helps!
3. Keep the drip going! – Keep a slow drip on your faucets so that this prevents your pipes from freezing. Moving water is harder to freeze than standing water.
4. Insulate your pipes – Make sure your pipes have adequate insulation for the winter season. Over time, the insulation on the pipes may have worn away, exposing them to the elements. Inspect and replace any insulation that is worn or missing.
5. Crawl Space Covers Are Key – Inspect the crawlspace access for structural damage that could cause cold air to enter the crawlspace and cause potential problems. Replace them if necessary, and if you don’t have one, I suggest you buy one. For less than ten dollars, it will be one of the best investments to keep your home and your pipes safe.

So head into this winter knowing your pipes are protected from the elements. By following the five secrets to keeping your plumbing safe, you’ll save thousands on repair bills and gain peace of mind.