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Winter in New York can be brutal, and freezing temperatures pose a serious threat to homeowners. One of the most common winter-related issues is frozen pipes, which can lead to costly water damage if they burst. At Quick Insurance, we want to help you prevent this disaster while also ensuring you have the right coverage in place. If you live in Port Jervis or anywhere in Orange County, NY, here’s what you need to know to protect your home this winter.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Preventing frozen pipes is much easier and cheaper than dealing with a burst pipe. Here are some key steps to take:
Insulate Pipes – Wrap exposed pipes in unheated areas (such as basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces) with foam pipe insulation.
Keep Your Home Warm – Set your thermostat to at least 55°F, even if you’re away.
Let Faucets Drip – On extremely cold nights, let a trickle of water run from faucets connected to vulnerable pipes to keep water flowing and prevent freezing.
Seal Drafts – Use caulk or weather stripping to seal cracks and openings near pipes to keep cold air out.
Open Cabinet Doors – Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks by keeping cabinet doors open.
Signs Your Pipes Are Freezing
Catching a frozen pipe early can save you from a costly repair. Watch for these warning signs:
Reduced water flow or no water coming from faucets
Frost on exposed pipes
Strange smells coming from drains
If you notice these signs, act quickly by warming the pipe with a hairdryer, heating pad, or space heater. Never use an open flame, as this is a fire hazard.
What to Do If a Pipe Bursts
Despite best efforts, pipes can still freeze and burst. If this happens:
Turn Off the Water Supply – Shut off your home’s main water valve to stop further flooding.
Drain Faucets – Turn on all faucets to remove any remaining water in the system.
Call a Plumber – A professional can repair the damage and prevent further issues.
Document the Damage – Take photos and videos for insurance claims.
Contact Your Insurance Provider – Notify your insurance company immediately to start the claims process.
Does Home Insurance Cover Frozen Pipes & Water Damage?
Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover water damage from burst pipes, but there are exceptions.
Covered: Sudden and accidental water damage from a burst pipe.
Not Covered: Damage resulting from neglect (e.g., failing to heat your home adequately).
Optional Coverage: Some policies offer endorsements for sewer backup or mold damage related to water leaks.
At Quick Insurance, we help homeowners in Port Jervis and Orange County, NY, understand their policies and ensure they have the right protection.
Stay Protected This Winter
Preventing frozen pipes is key to avoiding costly repairs and insurance claims. But in case of an emergency, having the right coverage can save you thousands. If you’re unsure whether your policy covers frozen pipe damage, contact Quick Insurance today for a review. We’ll help you find the best protection for your home this winter!
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