How to Avoid Frozen Pipes During Winter: Tenant Edition
Matt Profaizer • February 4, 2025
Tenant Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Winter’s subzero temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to costly repairs and water damage. As a tenant, there are simple steps you can take to prevent this chilly disaster and protect your home.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Problem
When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, increasing pressure and potentially causing the pipe to crack or burst. This can lead to flooding, water damage, and expensive repairs—all of which could be avoided with a little preparation.
Tenant Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Keep the Heat On: Maintain your thermostat at no lower than 55°F, even when you're away. Consistent heat helps prevent freezing in pipes near exterior walls.
- Open Cabinet Doors: Leave cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Let Faucets Drip: During extreme cold, let water trickle from faucets connected to vulnerable pipes. This keeps water moving, reducing the risk of freezing.
- Seal Drafts: Close gaps around windows, doors, and plumbing openings with weather stripping or caulk to prevent cold air from reaching pipes.
- Disconnect Hoses: Detach outdoor garden hoses and shut off water to exterior spigots. This prevents water in the hose and spigot from freezing and expanding into the connected pipes.
- Insulate Pipes: Use pipe insulation or foam covers on exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces.
- Know the Shut-Off Valve: Familiarize yourself with the main water shut-off valve. In case of a burst pipe, you’ll need to act quickly to minimize damage.
What to Do If Pipes Freeze
- Keep Faucets Open: If a pipe freezes, leave the faucet on to release pressure as ice melts.
- Apply Heat: Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels to thaw the pipe. Never use an open flame or torch, as this is a fire hazard.
- Notify Your Landlord: If you suspect a frozen pipe, contact your property manager immediately for further assistance.
Why It Matters
Preventing frozen pipes not only saves you the hassle of dealing with repairs but can also protect you from being held responsible for damages caused by neglect. Some leases may include clauses holding tenants liable for preventable issues like frozen pipes, so taking these precautions is in your best interest.
A Warm Reminder
Your landlord or property manager wants to help you maintain a safe and comfortable home. If you have any concerns about the condition of your pipes or need supplies like pipe insulation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can keep your home safe and cozy all winter long!
Fostering Good Relationships While Knowing When to Take Action
Practical Tips to Keep More Money in Your Pocket
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Tips for Tenants to Keep the Air Flowing Smoothly
Saving energy as a renter doesn’t just help the environment—it also keeps utility bills in check. Fortunately, small, consistent changes can lead to big savings. Follow these practical tips to improve your energy efficiency without compromising comfort. 1. Replace Furnace Filters Regularly One of the simplest and most effective ways to save energy is to maintain your furnace filters. A clogged or dirty filter forces your HVAC system to work harder, increasing energy use and utility bills. Check filters monthly during peak heating and cooling seasons. Replace filters every 30-90 days or as recommended by the manufacturer. Clean around the furnace to ensure proper airflow. Not only will this improve energy efficiency, but it also prevents unnecessary strain on your system, saving you potential repair costs down the line. Remember, failing to change filters could result in tenant charges for HVAC damage due to neglect. 2. Optimize Thermostat Settings Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in winter and higher in summer to reduce energy consumption. Use a programmable thermostat, if available, to adjust temperatures while you’re away. Layer clothing or use blankets to stay cozy without cranking up the heat. 3. Seal Drafts and Leaks Drafty windows and doors can significantly impact energy use. Use weatherstripping or draft stoppers to seal gaps around doors and windows. Close blinds and curtains at night to retain heat and open them during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your space. 4. Be Smart with Lighting Lighting accounts for a significant portion of electricity use. Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs. Turn off lights when leaving a room. Use natural light during the day to brighten your home without extra energy. 5. Unplug and Power Down Electronics and appliances use energy even when turned off. Unplug devices like chargers, toasters, and coffee makers when not in use. Use power strips to easily switch off multiple devices at once. 6. Be Efficient with Appliances Only run the dishwasher and laundry machines with full loads. Clean refrigerator coils to keep it running efficiently. Keep the oven door closed while cooking to prevent heat loss. Saving Energy is a Win-Win By implementing these energy-saving tips, you can lower your utility bills and reduce your environmental impact. Start with furnace filter maintenance and build from there—you’ll save money and enjoy a more efficient home in no time!
Protecting Your Security Deposit Starts Here
As a tenant, one term you’re likely to encounter is “normal wear and tear.” Understanding what this phrase means can save you from disputes with your landlord when it’s time to move out. Let’s break down what qualifies as normal wear and tear, what doesn’t, and how you can protect your security deposit. What Is Normal Wear and Tear? “Normal wear and tear” refers to the natural and expected deterioration of a property over time due to regular use. It accounts for minor issues that occur without negligence, misuse, or abuse. Examples include: Slightly worn carpet in high-traffic areas Small nail holes from hanging pictures Faded paint from sunlight exposure Minor scuff marks on walls These are considered normal because they happen as a part of everyday living and aren’t the result of tenant carelessness. What’s NOT Considered Normal Wear and Tear? Damage caused by negligence or misuse goes beyond normal wear and tear and could result in charges against your security deposit. Examples include: Stains, burns, or large tears in carpets Broken or missing blinds Large holes in walls or excessive paint damage Missing or damaged fixtures Mold or water damage due to lack of reporting maintenance issues These types of damage typically require repairs that go beyond routine maintenance and could be deducted from your deposit. How to Protect Your Security Deposit Document Everything: At move-in, fill out an inspection checklist and take photos to document the property’s condition. Be thorough—this will protect you from being charged for pre-existing damage. Report Maintenance Issues Promptly: If something breaks or needs attention, notify your property manager immediately to prevent further damage. Perform Routine Cleaning and Maintenance: Clean regularly to avoid buildup that could cause damage. Replace furnace filters as required. Follow lease guidelines for yard care or snow removal. Communicate at Move-Out: Before moving out, review the lease’s move-out requirements, clean thoroughly, and make minor repairs (like filling nail holes). At BMP Property Management, We’re Fair Unlike some management companies, BMP Property Management does not aim to profit from security deposits. Our goal is simple: to restore the property to its original condition (beyond normal wear and tear) and promptly return the remainder of your deposit. By understanding what normal wear and tear really means and taking proactive steps, you can avoid unnecessary deductions and ensure a smooth transition at move-out.
Protect Your Comfort, Your Home, and Your Security Deposit
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