Prevent Frozen Pipes
Protect your pipes from freezing weather by following the steps below:
- Drain and store outdoor hoses.
- Insulate outdoor and exposed pipes.
- Cover outdoor faucets.
- Keep garage doors closed.
- Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
- Drip faucets connected to exposed pipes (use cold water so you don't drain your water heater).
- Keep your thermostat at the same temperature day and night.
- If you will be away from your home during the freezing weather, keep your heater on at at least 55° F.
Thawing Frozen Pipes
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you likely have a frozen pipe. Safely thaw frozen pipes using the steps below:
- Keep your faucet on so the water has somewhere to go after you melt the ice.
- Gently heat the frozen section of the pipe using one of the following:
- An electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe.
- A hair dryer.
- A portable space heater (kept away from flammable items).
- Towels soaked in hot water wrapped around the pipe.
- NEVER try to thaw a frozen pipe using an open-flame device, such as a blowtorch. This can damage your pipes or cause a fire.
- Apply heat until the water pressure is fully restored. Repeat the process as needed for any other frozen pipes.
If you are unable to thaw a frozen pipe, or if you have a burst pipe, call a licensed plumber.