When temperatures drop below freezing – especially for a significant amount of time – the potential for frozen pipes increases dramatically. Before cold weather hits, here are some precautionary steps you can take, courtesy of the Iredell Agricultural Extension Service:
· Know where and how to shut off your water from the main shut-off valve.
· Seal air leaks around pipes that allow cold air to seep in.
· Insulate pipes near outer walls, in crawl spaces or in attics.
· In exposed or problem areas, you may use heat tape or heat cables to prevent freezing. Make certain they are UL approved and that you follow manufacturers instructions.
· Disconnect garden hoses, shut off and drain water from pipes leading outside.
· Turn your faucet on just enough to have constant dripping (for pipes that may be on exterior wall)
· Open cabinet doors to allow heat to circulate around pipes under a sink.
· Leave heat on and set no lower than 55 degrees.
· If you plan to be away from home, have someone check on your house daily.
· Close foundation vents if the temperature drops below freezing for a significant period of time. Re-open when weather warms.
If pipes freeze:
· Shut off water valves. Stopping the flow of water can minimize the damage to your home.
· Call a plumber to thaw your pipes. Thawing yourself can lead to greater damage and can be a hazard.
· If your pipes burst, call a plumber and your insurance agent.
Although experts do NOT recommended thawing pipes yourself, if you do try to thaw:
· Don't try to thaw the pipes with an open flame or torch.
· Don't use ungrounded electrical appliances outdoors, or near grounded water pipes.
· Be careful of the potential for electric shock in and around water.
· Never start a debris fire to warm pipes.
· When thawing pipes, always work from the open faucet toward the frozen area. This will keep steam from being trapped by ice and bursting the pipe.
Sarah Kirby, PhD, is an Extension Housing Specialist and Susan Condlin an Extension Agent for Family & Consumer Sciences, both with the Iredell office of the N.C. Extension Service.
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