Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes

We knew it was bound to happen!  Winter weather has finally arrived!  After a nice, mild November and December, Old Man Winter finally awoke from his slumber!

With single digit temps and sub-zero wind chills; taking steps to prevent frozen pipes is essential to any homeowner! (or renter)

OUTSIDE HOME:

• Keep the Garage Door Closed (especially if the garage is attached to the house)

• You might want to place an insulating dome or other covering on outdoor faucets and spigots to reduce the likelihood of water pipes freezing, expanding

• Make sure holes and cracks are filled in exterior walls to prevent cold air from entering into the walls (this is a task that more than likely should be handled in warmer weather)

INSIDE HOME:

• Open bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors so that warm air will circulate around pipes             (Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.)

• Allow a slow drip from your faucets to reduce the buildup of pressure in the pipes.  Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.

• IF the pipes freeze, the release pressure in the water system will reduce the likelihood of a rupture.

• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. Lowering the temperature at night might save a few dollars in your heating bill, however it could cause your pipes to freeze thus a more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.

GOING OUT OF TOWN?

• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

• You might also want to drain your water system completely.  Consult with a professional for proper instruction or completion of this task

This is NOT something you want to see in your basement or crawlspace
or not see with plumbing inside a wall or ceiling

If your pipes do freeze:

• You should keep the faucet open. As the frozen area starts to melt, water will flow and running water will help melt ice in the pipe.

• CALL A PROFESSIONAL! They will give you the proper advice!

Stay warm and cozy... safe of the roads!