Tips to Avoid Frozen Pipes

Most winters, Mother Nature throws us into frigid temperatures here in Colorado, and these low temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing system if your pipes freeze up. Frozen pipes will leave you without water and can lead to costly repairs. A little prevention will go a long way to protect your Douglas County home.

Before the Cold Weather Hits:

• Verify your irrigation or sprinkling system is drained and turned off. Disconnect garden hoses.
• Address drafty windows and doors. Look for exterior gaps near electrical wiring, dryer vents, outdoor plumbing fixtures, skylights, and solar panels. Using caulk or spray foam that is designed for outdoor applications to fill in the gaps.
• Know where your water shut-off valve is located and test it to ensure you can shut it off if needed (they tend to stick when not used very often).
• Protect exposed pipes with insulation, heat tape, or temperature-controlled heat cables.

When the Temps Drop:

• If you have pipes running through cabinets or vanities (especially on exterior walls), open the doors to allow warm air to flow in.
• Turn faucets that are on exterior walls to allow a slow drip. This will keep the water moving through the pipes and reduce the risk of freezing.

If Your Pipes Freeze:

• Shut off your water at the main water valve.
• Thaw pipes using a heat source (hair dryers, heated blankets, or space heaters will do the trick). Do not use kerosene heaters or any device with an open flame. During this process, keep a close eye on the pipes and don’t leave the space unattended.
• Once the pipes are thawed, you’ll want to test them. Start by turning the water on at the main valve, then slowly turn on the closest faucet while checking the pipes and joints near the problem area for cracks or leaks. Then, increase the flow and recheck everything.

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