Freezing Temperatures, Frozen Pipes

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Uninsulated metal can still break due to freezing water. Protect your pipes by ensuring they are well insulated.

Water expands as it freezes and for homeowners and businesses it could mean a water loss. Both plastic and metal pipes can break due to freezing water, so it is important to take preventative measures as colder months near. Pipes that are frequently affected are those exposed to severe cold, outdoor house bibs, pool lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated, uninsulated areas.

To protect your pipes:

• Drain supply lines
• Remove and drain hoses used outdoors
• Keep outside valves open so any water that remains and does freeze has space to expand without breaking the pipe.
• Add insulation to unheated areas; maintains higher temps in these areas

Prevention:

• Keep garage doors closed if lines are present in the garage
• Open cabinets in kitchen and bathroom to allow warm air to circulate into areas where plumbing is.
• If weather is very cold out, let a drip from the faucet; helps prevent them from freezing
• Leave heat on in your home, incurring a higher heating bill may prevent you from more costly repair if pipes freeze and burst.
• If leaving home during cold weather, leave heat set to a temp no lower than 55F.

Check out more information on freezing pipes on the Red Cross website.