The winter chill is here, and it can lead to a lot of frustrations like poor road conditions and layers upon layers of clothes. However, in addition to these inconveniences, these below-zero temperatures can lead to the messy problem of frozen pipes. Take preventative action to ensure your pipes don’t freeze up on you this winter.
- If you have water supply lines in your garage, keep the doors closed.
- Open any kitchen and bathroom cabinets that contain pipes to allow warmer air to reach the plumbing.
- Keep water running through the pipes by turning on faucets to a slow drip.
- Keep your thermostat above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, even if you are leaving for an extended period of time.
- Drain and store outdoor hoses, and close any inside valves that supply these hoses.
- Inspect unheated areas in the home that contain water supply lines, and insulate the pipes.
If you do discover a frozen pipe, take measures to thaw it immediately.
- First look at pipes that run along exterior walls.
- Apply heat using an electric heating pipe, hair dryer or portable space heater. Do not leave these by the pipes unattended. Never use an open flame to heat your pipes.
- Keep applying the heat until full pressure is restored.
- Keep the faucet open during the process so water can start running through as soon as possible.
- If you find a freeze in one faucet, check other faucets too.
Courtesy of the American Red Cross
