It’s unfortunate, but our claims professionals can forecast the challenges property owners are going to face with the upcoming weather forecast and it will be difficult for some. Below freezing weather will freeze pipes, flood property, and disrupt lives and businesses. Home or a business, flood disasters are as predictable as the weather but there are simple things you can do to prevent them.
During cold weather season, using your ears and eyes, fully inspect your property for signs of cold air intrusion. Determine if your insulation and heating systems have potential vulnerable areas from inadequate insulation or spaces difficult to heat. Consider plumbing vulnerabilities such as pipe along outside walls, under-insulated areas, unattended areas, and areas difficult to maintain heat.
If vulnerable areas are found, address them immediately. Consider the following solutions:
• Have the HVAC system reviewed by a professional to ensure it is functioning efficiently.
• Inspect HVAC filter monthly and replace as needed (frequency will increase in winter months)
• Seal drafts with weather seal.
• Open doors to cabinets or rooms I they are impeding the ability to get heat.
• Consider installing programmable thermostats to optimize energy use by adjusting temperatures when property is unattended.
• Consider smart home remote monitoring technology for temperature, water leaks, and power outage notifications.
• Insulate exposed pipes using foam sleeves or a similar product.
• Heat pipes located in unheated areas, like basements or crawl spaces, with electric heating cables or tapes that are specifically designed for pipes.
• Routinely check pipes for signs of ice or condensation build up and for leaks and repairing them promptly.
• Allow a very small amount of water (thickness of a pencil lead) to leak from a faucet because moving water, even if slight, is less likely to freeze completely.
• If pipes do freeze, maintaining slow water flow reduces built-up pressure that causes pipe damage.
Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan agents are ready and eager to help protect your family from life's unexpected emergencies; be it through helping you stay prepared, or being there for you in your moment of need.