Fortunatley, frozen pipes are more likely to occur when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit and normally in pipes with either direct outdoor exposure or in completly unheated interior areas, such as crawlspaces.
- Naturally, the best prevention is to advoid having pipes placed in exposed areas in the the first place. However, if you don't have the option of re-routing plumbing, you can take other steps:
- Before the cold-weather season begins, ensure that you completely drain and cut off the water supply to any exposed exterior plumbing. An example of this would be a faucet on the outside of the house where you plug in the hose.
- When the forecast calls for extreme cold, open a faucet in your home to a small drip or trickle to keey water flowing through your sustem. This won't necessarily prevent freezing, but it can help prevent buildup of excessive pressure in the pipes.
- Fit pipes in exposed areas with insulation sleeves. This material is availabe at your local hardware stores.
- Keep the cold out by sealing any cracks in exterior walls or foundations that are near pipes
- Be sure not to lower your heat too much if going away on a trip
- If you believe a pipe is frozen, don't delay- call a plumber immediately. Make sure not to use an open flame to try to thaw a pipe, due to fire hazared and possible plumbing damage.
- Most importantly, ensure that everyone in your household knows where the main water supply shut-off valve is located. In the event of a pipe bursting you'll need to act quickly to avoid flood damage.