With frigid temperatures arriving, extra attention should be paid to pipes to avoid costly problems.
Here are a few reminders:
Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate.
- Don’t set your thermostat lower than 55 degrees.
- Disconnect the garden hose. Turn off the indoor valve and drain the water to outdoor faucets.
- Insulate water lines inside your house. Use preformed foam tubes, weatherproof insulation, or heat tape. Focus on water lines near exterior walls or in unheated areas.
- If you’ll be away for a few days, turn off the water supply at the meter.
- Temperatures Below Zero: Let a thin stream of water flow. Note that you will be charged for the water consumption; but consider the cost of water damage repair vs. cost of usage.
Thaw Frozen Pipes
- If some faucets and appliances are dry and others still work, a water line is frozen inside the building. Run a damp rag along exposed water pipes. Likely areas are near exterior walls or in unheated areas. Your ice plug is where you see the frost appear.
- Thaw the pipe out slowly using a hair dryer
- Don’t thaw the pipe with an open flame or torch
- Be extremely careful of electric shock in areas of standing water
For more information, visit https://www.cranberrytownship.org/3145/Monitor-Water-Use.