Precautions To Prevent Water Pipes From Freezing

With forecast lows hitting our area over the next few days, there is the

potential of many water pipes freezing and bursting. Please review the below tips to help minimize the possibility or damage.

• Shut off outside hose facets and drain 
• Purchase a cover for the outside hose faucet - they are cheap and very effective 
• Locate the main water shut off for your home so that if a pipe bursts, you can shut off the water thus stopping the leak and minimizing damage
• Open cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathrooms to let heat in and around the plumbing.  Especially important if some of these pipes run up against outside walls.
• Keep any garage doors closed if there are water pipes or supply lines in the garage.  If attached to home, consider opening the door to the garage to allow home heat to enter the garage.  While your heating bill may take a hit, the cost will not compare to costly repairs from water damage
• DO NOT use kerosene or other fuel fed heating devices in the garage to heat it
• Let water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe (even at a dribble) can help prevent pipes from freezing
• DO NOT use a blow torch or any other open flame to try and thaw out potentially frozen pipes!
• Keep the thermostat set to no lower than 55° F during the evening hours or if you will be leaving the home for an extended period of time (day or night)