Preventing Frozen Pipes

Cold weather can cause serious plumbing problems without proper precautions. Water pipes can burst if the water within them freezes, and plumbing repairs to fix pipes can be very costly. 

To Preventing Frozen Pipes;

Before the onset of cold weather, prevent freezing of water supply lines and pipes by following these recommendations:

• Insulate pipes most susceptible to freezing. Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation are also subject to freezing.
• Caulk around pipes where they enter the home.
• Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located. A tiny opening can let in enough cold air to cause a pipe to freeze. Check for leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes. Use caulk or insulation to block off the cold air.
• Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors.
• Drain irrigation system and backflow prevention device(s). If possible, use an indoor valve to shut off and drain pipes leading to outside faucets.
• Cover foundation vents with foam blocks or cardboard.
• Wrap outside faucets and backflow prevention devices with insulating material.
• Consider shutting off the water and draining your plumbing system if you plan to be out of town for an extended period during winter. Turn off the water at the main shut off valve and turn on every faucet (hot and cold) until the water stops running. Drain toilets by holding down the lever until tank empties.
• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Let faucets trickle cold water overnight. Moving water is less likely to freeze.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.
• During the winter months, especially during freezing weather, keep the heat on and set no lower than 55 degrees.