Freezing temperatures and gusty winds are forecasted this weekend. Here are some tips to prevent water damage from frozen pipes from Travelers Insurance Company.
Tips to Help Prevent Frozen Pipes
- If provided, close inside valves supplying water to outdoor faucets and hookups. Disconnect any hoses from exterior faucets.
- Open outdoor faucets to allow residual water to drain; be sure to keep them open during the cold weather months, while the water supply is turned off.
- Keep garage doors closed to help protect water pipes located in the garage.
- Open the doors on cabinets where plumbing is located. This can help allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes.
- For pipes that are at risk of freezing (both hot and cold water pipes), let water drip from faucets.
- Keep the heat in your home set at a minimum of 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
What to Do if You Have a Frozen Pipe
- Locate and close the main water shut-off valve as soon as possible and before temperatures rise above freezing.
- Inspect pipes for damage, including those in attics and crawl spaces, where it is safe to do so.
- As temperatures rise above freezing, watch and listen for signs of water leaks.
- If a pipe is leaking, do not turn on the water. Open all faucets, including those outside, to drain remaining water from pipes. Then call a licensed plumber for repairs.
- If no leaks are detected, turn the water back on slowly. Continue to check for leaks before turning the water on completely.
- Never use torches or heat guns to facilitate thawing as these can create fire hazards.
