Prevent Frozen Pipes

The frigid winter air can bring about the potential of unwanted plumbing issues. The lower the temperatures drop, the higher the chances of pipes freezing and at worst, bursting become. Pipes that are at the greatest risk of freezing are those most exposed to the elements both outdoors and inside exterior walls. Water pipes in garages, basements, crawl spaces, attics, kitchen, and bathroom cabinets can freeze as these are usually locations in unheated spaces in the house. To help prevent pipes from freezing and/or bursting in cold weather, here are a few tips to remember:

• Make sure to remove garden hoses from outdoor spigots before winter arrives.
• Attach faucet insulators to outdoor spigots to help keep cold air out.
• Keep garage doors closed to help protect water lines in the garage.
• Cover exposed pipes in unheated spaces with foam insulation.
• If pipes in kitchen and bathroom cabinets are on an exterior facing wall, open the cabinet doors to help circulate warm air around the pipes.
• In frigid conditions, leave water dripping slowly from a faucet on an exterior facing wall to help keep water moving through the pipes.
• Check for drafts around water supply lines in unheated areas of the house and insulate as needed.
• If you plan to be away during cold, frigid weather be sure to leave the heat on in the house, set to no lower than 55 degrees F.
• Know where to locate the main shutoff valve for the water in the event pipes freeze and burst.