Storms and Frigid Temperatures Can Cause Frozen Pipes

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

As temperatures drop, be aware of what you can do to help your pipes from bursting.

With temperatures in the single digits today today in New England, Haverhill home owners should be alert to the dangers of freezing pipes. As most people know, when water freezes, it expands. This expansion can cause pipes in your home or business to crack and burst. According to State Farm insurance, A 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can spew up to 250 gallons of water a day, causing flooding, serious structural damage, and the immediate potential for mold. The pipes most at risk in your home are located in unheated areas, such as garages, attics, and basements. Pipes running through cabinets and exterior walls are at risk as well. You can prevent your pipes from freezing by following some simple tips.

Tips to Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing

For outside areas, remove hoses from outdoor water faucets, and cover exterior faucets. If your home has a water shut-off valve, turn off the water supply to outside faucets. Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in your garage. For the interior of your home, be sure that your home has proper insulation- especially in basements, attics and crawl spaces. Keep your home warm and open kitchen & bathroom cabinets. This will allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. Turn faucets on and let your water run in extremely cold temperatures. Even a slow trickle can help prevent pipes from freezing.