Below-freezing temperatures can be expected every winter in the Midwest. Not only are these cold temperatures hard on your energy bill, but they are also hard on your pipes. When water freezes, it expands, and this can cause trouble for both plastic and metal pipes.
The last thing you want to wake up to on a cold morning is water damage from a burst pipe. But there are many ways you can prevent the pipes in your home from freezing. Protect your home with these tips from the American Red Cross.
Tips to Protect Pipes From Freezing:
- Drain water from sprinkler lines and pools
- Remove and store hoses inside
- Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs and open outside hose bibs to allow water to drain
- Add insulation to water supply lines, attics, basements and crawl spaces
Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes:
- Open cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing
- Let cold water drip from a faucet connected to exposed pipes
- Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature night and day
- Set your thermostat to no lower than 55° F when away for traveling
Tips to Thaw Frozen Pipes:
- Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad or a hair dryer
- Apply heat until water pressure is fully restored
- Leave the faucet open to keep water running through the pipe
- Check all other faucets in your home to find any additional frozen pipes
If a pipe does burst at your home, contact CREW right away. Our 24-hour emergency response team is the first step in restoring your home back to normal. Our state-of-the-art equipment allows us to dry the area quickly and efficiently.
