Metro Insulated

Posted in June 27, 2008 ¬ 12:02 amh.adminNo Comments »

Metro Insulated
How do I prevent copper pipes from bursting?

We have about 10 feet of copper piping running along the ceiling of the garage where it is prone to get below freezing on very cold days. Even insulated, the pipes can feeze. This weekend, when we were away for 3 days, the pipes did burst and flooded the garage. We’re replacing the ‘burst’ section, but I’d like to know my options for preventing this from happening again. Do you they make heated insulation? I know I can let the water drip (or drain the water & turn it off when we go away for the weekend), but I’d like to know of more high tech or automated solution. Maybe there is something that circulates the water? We’re in the DC metro area in Maryland. Thanks!

Here’s more info to help with the installation of Heat Tape.

http://www.mygreathome.com/fix-it_guide/heat_tape.htm

However, you should only use it for two or three winters MAX. because the insulation dries out and gets brittle causing cracks in the insulation, resulting in sparks, etc. etc.

http://www.wetmtv.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=4050fa5a-4f20-4965-ba31-69861abbbba9

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5045.html

http://plumbing.hardwarestore.com/52-299-heat-tape.aspx

All in all it is a very good solution to the problem. As long as you understand it’s limitations.
Good Luck,