Put a Freeze on Frozen Pipes
Having a pipe freeze in your home may cause more damage than you’d expect! If water freezes in your pipes, it will expand and may cause the pipe to burst. This could cause extreme and pricey water damage to your home. With daily temperatures rarely exceeding 32 degrees around this time of year, here are some tips to keep your pipes from freezing:
• Shut off exposed pipes that aren’t used in the winter, such as those leading to an outdoor faucet. Drain the water from your pipes by opening the faucet and leaving it open.• Insulate your pipes from the cold. Many hardware stores sell material specifically for this purpose.• Wrap exposed pipes in electric heat tape or heat cables.• Leave faucets that are connected to exposed pipes open and dripping. Flowing water takes longer to freeze than standing water.• Open the cabinets under sinks that are against an outside wall. This will allow heat to reach the pipes.• If you leave home for an extended period of time, make sure the thermostat is set to no lower than 55 degrees and ask a neighbor to check your home daily.
If you think you have a frozen pipe that has yet to burst, turn on the faucets and contact us. If a pipe has already burst, shut off the main valve and cut water supply to the house. Do not attempt to thaw pipes with a torch or open flame.
