With frigid temperatures here, Liberty Discount Fuel has some ways for you to prevent frozen pipes and avoid costly repairs:
- Let the faucet run at a trickle overnight during extremely cold weather. The cost is minimal and the moving water will help prevent the pipes from freezing.
- Wrap and insulate all water pipes in unheated areas, such as your basement. Pay close attention to pipes near exterior walls, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Repair or replace broken exterior windows. Cover windows with plastic and caulk windows near water meters and pipes. When cold air blows on a pipe, it increases the risk of freezing.
- Identify the location of the shutoff valves for your water supply; it’s usually near the water meter. In emergencies, use the house-side service valve to shut off your water supply.
- Keep the water meter area above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Disconnect garden hoses and shut off the outdoor water supply. Most outdoor faucets have a dedicated shutoff valve inside; use that valve, and leave the outside faucet open to drain the remaining section of pipe.
- Check your faucets for water flow and pressure before you go to sleep and again when you wake up. The first sign of freezing is reduced water flow from a faucet.
