How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in a Barn

Frozen barn pipes can leave you high and dry in the winter. Both plastic and metal pipes are pre-disposed to freezing. Frozen pipes tend to burst and more than 250 gallons of water can gush from just a small 1/8-inch crack. While no waterers will work if your water supply freezes, there are several freeze-proof waterers available on the market. Taking a few preventive measures can help prevent frozen pipes.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape
  • Newspaper or Pipe Sleeve
  • Heat Tape
  • Faucet Covers
  • Caulk
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Instructions

    • 1

      Protect exposed pipes by insulating them with a layer of newspaper. A 1/4-inch layer of newspaper can provide some protection from the cold in areas that don't have prolonged bouts of freezing temperatures. Carefully wrap the pipes so the ends are butted tightly and wrap tape around any joints. In areas with severe and/or frequently cold weather, professional quality insulation, usually referred to as a "pipe sleeve," may be required. They can be purchased at most hardware stores.

    • 2

      Caulk around places where pipes enter the barn to prevent heat from leaking out. You also want to search around for dryer vents, electrical wiring, water meters, and any other place plumbing enters your barn for spots where heat might leak out and that need additional insulation.

    • 3

      Place heat tape or heat capes that are controlled by a thermostat to keep pipes warm. They should be applied according to the manufacturer's directions and can be purchased at most hardware or building supply stores. Heat tape, like all other electrical device and cables, should be used sparingly in the barn and out of your horse's reach.

    • 4

      Unhook any hoses from faucets, and if necessary, shut off your barn's water and drain the pipers after each use.

    • 5

      Shield and insulate faucets from extreme cold by installing commercial faucet covers.

    • 6

      Allow a trickle of hot or lukewarm water to drip thought the barn pipes. Sometimes keeping water moving is all it takes to keep your pipes from freezing when the mercury drops. However, this is not always possible as many barns do not have hot water.