During the winter season, please be aware of the potential for water pipes to freeze during extremely cold weather. These few simple ideas can increase the potential for frozen pipes, water damage and costly repairs.

To prevent frozen pipes and reduce damage if pipes do freeze, follow these tips:

Shut outside vents in crawl spaces. Many homes, especially the older ones, have water pipes that pass right next to outside vents which increases the risk of freezing.

When the weather outside is extremely cold, open cabinet doors and closet doors where there are pipes. This allows the heat inside your home to get to the pipes and reduce the risk of freezing.

In severe weather, allow a trickle of water to run from your faucets to maintain flow through pipes near exterior walls.

Know where the “shut-off” valves are in your home. Many fixtures (including toilets, sinks, hot water heater) have an individual shut-off valve.

If a leak occurs, turn off the water at the main shut-off.

If a pipe should freeze, use a hair dryer to help slowly thaw the pipe. Do NOT use torches or heat guns.

Following these tips should help ensure a good winter season!