Protecting your Pipes from a Hard Freeze

Winter is a beautiful season, but it can also bring freezing temperatures that pose a threat to your home and its vital components. One of the greatest risks during a hard freeze is frozen pipes. When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands, leading to cracks, bursts, and potentially costly damages. To help you protect your home and your pipes from the cold, here are the six most important things to do:

1. Insulate your pipes: Insulation is the best defense against freezing pipes. Start by identifying the pipes that are exposed to cold temperatures, such as those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Wrap these pipes with insulation sleeves or foam, providing a protective layer that helps retain heat and prevents freezing.

2. Keep your home warm: Maintaining a warm indoor temperature is crucial during freezing weather. Set your thermostat to a consistent temperature throughout the day and night, even if you're away from home. By keeping your interior warm, you create a barrier of warmth around your pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.

3. Allow faucets to drip: When temperatures plummet, allowing your faucets to drip can prevent water from becoming stagnant within the pipes. This constant flow of water helps relieve pressure and reduces the likelihood of freezing. Be sure to open both hot and cold taps slightly, as both can freeze.

4. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses: Outdoor hoses are particularly susceptible to freezing. Before temperatures drop, disconnect all hoses and drain the water from them. If left attached, the water inside the hose can freeze and extend into the connected pipes, causing them to burst.

5. Seal cracks and openings: Cold air can enter your home through even the tiniest gaps and cracks, increasing the risk of frozen pipes. Inspect your home for any cracks or openings near pipes and seal them with caulk or insulation. By doing so, you'll prevent frigid air from reaching your pipes and keep them protected throughout the winter.

6. Know where the main water shutoff valve is in case you need to get to it quickly! 

Taking these proactive steps can go a long way in safeguarding your home and preventing frozen pipes during a hard freeze. By insulating, heating, dripping, disconnecting, and sealing, you can enjoy a worry-free winter while protecting the heart of your home. Stay warm and cozy!