When temperatures drop during a polar vortex, the risks to your home’s plumbing and overall safety rise. Frozen pipes, water outages, and power disruptions are common during extreme cold. At Aqua Knight Plumbing, we believe preparation is key. In addition to plumbing supplies, it’s smart to have food and emergency gear on hand. Here’s a comprehensive list of items to keep at home so you’re ready to handle the cold weather.
1. Pipe Insulation
Frozen pipes are one of the biggest risks during a polar vortex. Foam pipe insulation or wraps can keep pipes warm and prevent freezing. Pay special attention to unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages.
2. Heat Tape or Heating Cables
These are excellent for preventing frozen pipes. Heat tape provides direct warmth to pipes, maintaining water flow during extreme cold.
3. Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape)
Handy for quick fixes on pipe joints or small leaks, the plumber’s tape can help temporarily seal up a leaking pipe until professional help arrives.
4. Bucket and Towels
In case of a burst pipe, you’ll need something to contain water while you shut off the main valve. Keep a sturdy bucket and absorbent towels handy for cleanup.
5. Adjustable Wrench
Make sure you have an adjustable wrench to quickly turn off your water supply in case of a leak or burst pipe.
6. Space Heaters
Portable space heaters are great for keeping areas with vulnerable pipes warm. Use them safely to prevent freezing in unheated parts of your home.
7. Drain Cleaner or Plumbing Snake
Cold weather can lead to slow drains. A plumbing snake or non-corrosive drain cleaner can help clear minor blockages before they become major issues.
8. Bottled Water
If your pipes freeze or you lose your water supply, stock up on bottled water. At least one gallon per person per day is recommended for drinking, cooking, and sanitation.
9. Plunger
A reliable plunger can help with minor clogs in toilets or sinks, especially if you’re using your plumbing system more during a cold snap.
10. Generator
If power outages are common during extreme cold, having a backup generator is a must. It can keep heat running in your home and power essential appliances, like space heaters and sump pumps. Make sure to keep extra fuel on hand and follow safety precautions.
11. Non-Perishable Food
Keep a stockpile of non-perishable foods like canned goods, protein bars, and dry snacks that don’t require refrigeration or cooking. If the power goes out, you’ll have food on hand for several days.
12. Contact Information for Aqua Knight Plumbing
Plumbing issues can quickly escalate in the cold. Keep our number, 630-755-0583, saved for emergencies. Our expert team is ready to help.
Bonus Tips to Prevent Plumbing Issues During a Polar Vortex
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate pipes.
- Let faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing and prevent freezing.
- Seal gaps and cracks around pipes with caulking or spray foam to block out cold air.
Stay Safe, Warm, and Prepared with Aqua Knight Plumbing
The key to surviving a polar vortex is preparation. With the right plumbing supplies, emergency gear, and non-perishable food, you can minimize disruptions to your home and keep your plumbing system intact.
If you run into any plumbing problems or need help with frozen pipes, Aqua Knight Plumbing is here to assist. Call us at 630-755-0583 or schedule a service online. We’ve got you covered, even when the cold hits hard!
