Handy Tips to Avoid Frozen Pipes This Winter

Before the Cold Weather set in

• Check sprinkler or irrigation systems. Make sure everything is turned off and drained.
• Eliminate sources of cold air near water lines. Fix drafty windows and plug drafts around doors. Identify your home's freezing points.
• Know how to shut off your water.
• Protect your pipes. Wrap them with insulation.

When Temperatures Stay Below Freezing

• If pipes run through cabinets or vanities, open the doors to let warmer room temperatures flow in.
• Keep water moving through the pipes by allowing a small trickle of water to run.

But if Your Pipes Do Freeze

• Shut off the water immediately.
• Thaw pipes with warm air, with a hair dryer or space heater. Do not leave space heaters unattended and do not use kerosene heaters or open flames.
• Be careful turning water back on. Once pipes are thawed, slowly turn the water back on and check pipes and joints for any cracks.