DAYTON As we enter the coldest month of the year, AAA Insurance is encouraging homeowners to take precautions to prevent costly damage from burst pipes.In fact, Ohio homeowners filed nearly $40,000 in AAA insurance claims last year to cover damage from a burst pipe.This is an increase of more than $15,000 over the average year.
“While Ohio’s cold weather isn’t unexpected, extreme cold often leads to unexpected costs for homeowners,” said AAA spokeswoman Kara Hitchens.”Knowing what to do when your pipeline bursts, what your insurance will cover and how your claim will be handled is key.”
Both plastic and copper pipes are at risk of freezing due to sudden temperature drops, poor insulation, or incorrectly set thermostats.
Cracks as small as 1/8 inch can spew up to 250 gallons of water per day, leading to flooding, severe structural damage and the potential for mildew.
Even if you live in an area where freezing temperatures are unlikely, insulate your home’s crawlspaces and pipes in the attic.
Seal gaps around ducts that allow cool air to enter.You should also look for air leaks around cords, dryer vents, and ducts.Use caulk or insulation to keep out the cold.
Disconnect the garden hose.If possible, use an indoor valve to close and drain the water in the line to the outdoor faucet.This reduces the chance of plumbing freezing in the house.
If freezing is expected, consider letting the warm water drip slightly overnight, preferably from a faucet on an exterior wall.Even a slight trickle can keep the pipes from freezing.
Don’t turn down the thermostat right before bed when there’s a chance of freezing.Instead, keep the same settings day and night.The more common overnight temperature drop can freeze your pipes.
If you’re going on vacation or away from home for a long time, consider keeping the heat to a minimum to prevent freezing.
You can use a hair dryer to thaw frozen pipes.Heat the part of the pipe closest to the faucet first, then move toward the coldest part of the pipe.
Never use a hair dryer or any electrical appliance in an area of standing water.You may get electrocuted.
If your pipe bursts, turn off the main water valve first, then clear the water.You don’t want water to do more damage than it already does.
Call your insurance company’s claims department as soon as possible.Insurance adjusters don’t need to see the leak before you take action.However, he or she will want to inspect any damaged items.
Make temporary repairs and take other steps to protect your property from further damage.Remove any carpet or furniture that may be further damaged by water seepage.
Save receipts for your expenses — including extra living expenses if you have to leave the house until repairs are complete — and submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement.
A standard homeowner’s policy will cover most damages from freezing.For example, if house pipes freeze and burst, or if ice forms in gutters and causes water to back up under roof tiles and seep into the house.You’re also covered if the weight of snow or ice damages your house.
If your home suffers from water damage, it is important to ensure proper drying and repair of the home to prevent any potential mold issues.Remember that mold cannot survive without moisture.
Post time: Jan-21-2022
