Winter can be brutal on your home's plumbing system. Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly problems homeowners face during cold weather. Here's how to protect your plumbing before temperatures drop.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages are most vulnerable to freezing. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to protect these pipes from cold temperatures.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Before the first freeze, disconnect all garden hoses and drain them. Close the interior shut-off valve for outdoor faucets and open the outdoor faucet to let any remaining water drain out.
Know Your Main Shut-Off Valve
In case a pipe does burst, knowing how to quickly shut off your water supply can minimize damage. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the main shut-off valve is located.
Keep Your Home Warm
Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, even when you're away. Setting your thermostat no lower than 55°F can help prevent pipes from freezing.
Taking these precautions now can save you from the headache and expense of dealing with frozen or burst pipes later.