Frozen Pipes Ruin 250,000 Homes Each Winter

Did you know that frozen pipes ruin an average of a quarter million homes each winter? Frozen pipes freeze, burst and disrupt homeowners lives. Unfortunately, you can’t just call your local plumber to fix these burst pipes and the damage it could cause could be devastating. Here are some precautions to save you money, chaos and the stress frozen pipes cause.

Frozen PipeBefore the cold winter weather ensues:

  • Insulate the pipes in your home including crawl spaces and your attic. The more insulation used, the better the chance of your pipes will be protected.
  • Seal any leaks that allow cold air insure your home. Use caulk or insutlation to keep out the cold and heat in (Plus, this will help you save on heating costs). Even the tiniest of openings can cause pipes to freeze if it’s just that cold outside.
  • If possible, shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets.

When the temperature drops:

  • A trickle of hot and cold water might be all it takes to keep your pipes from freezing.
  • Allow heat to reach un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances.

What to do if you go away:

  • Set the thermostat in your to at least 55°F (12°C).
  • Ask a friend, neighbor or family member to check on your house.
  • Shut off and drain the water system. (If you have fire protection sprinklers, this will deactivate when the water is shut off).

If your pipes freeze:

  • Don’t chance anything.
  • If you turn on your faucets and nothing happens, leave the faucets on and call a plumber.
  • If you notice that your water pipes are frozen and did burst, turn off the main shut off valve, leave the faucets turned on.
  • Do not try to thaw a pipe by any means of fire or open flame. You could burn your house down rather than just have water damage.

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